Kentucky men’s basketball and head coach Mark Pope missed out on a potential addition to its 2026-27 roster on Thursday afternoon as highly touted Michigan State transfer Jaxon Kohler decided to take his talents to BYU.

According to On3’s Joe Tipton, Kohler is headed to play for the BYU Cougars this season.

Kohler emerged as a late option for programs across the country following a federal court injunction that granted the 6-foot-9 center a fifth year of eligibility earlier in the week, allowing a return to college hoops; following the ruling, Kohler officially entered his name in the portal, where he was then approached by several schools.

CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein reported that UK held a Zoom call with Kohler on Wednesday afternoon, while head coach Kevin Young and BYU held one with the 6-foot-9 forward later that evening as well. Kansas and Louisville were also in the mix.

Moving past Kohler, Pope now reportedly has his sights set on 6-foot-9 Missouri Tigers transfer forward Mark Mitchell, who filed a lawsuit in Jefferson County, Kentucky, seeking an extended fifth year of college ball as well.

Mitchell is not officially in the portal just yet as he is waiting for an official court decision, but more is expected to unfold in the coming days regarding the Kansas natives future.

Cats Coverage will have you updated on all news regarding Mitchell and other athletes who are seeking, and who have been, recently granted a fifth year of eligibility.

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