Brandon Garrison, the 6-foot-10 center from Oklahoma City, is set to return to the University of Kentucky for the 2025–26 basketball season. After a promising freshman year at Oklahoma State, Garrison transferred to Kentucky in April 2024, joining head coach Mark Pope’s revamped roster. His decision to stay with the Wildcats for the upcoming season provides valuable continuity and depth to Kentucky’s frontcourt.
During his freshman season at Oklahoma State, Garrison played in all 32 games, starting 29, and averaged 7.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. He shot an impressive 58.9% from the field, ranking among the Big 12 leaders in blocks per game. Notably, Garrison had standout performances against Baylor and BYU, scoring 20 and 21 points, respectively, showcasing his offensive capabilities
At Kentucky, Garrison is expected to play a crucial role in the frontcourt alongside fellow transfer Amari Williams. Williams, known for his defensive prowess, earned the Coastal Athletic Association Defensive Player of the Year in three consecutive seasons. Together, they form a formidable duo capable of anchoring Kentucky’s defense and providing a strong presence in the paint
Garrison’s return is particularly significant as Kentucky aims to strengthen its defensive game. The Wildcats have made several key additions, including Jayden Quaintance, Kam Williams, and Mouhamed Dioubate, who collectively recorded 123 blocks last season. With the addition of 7-foot newcomer Malachi Moreno, Kentucky’s defense is poised to become a dominant force in the SEC, especially in rim protection
Looking ahead, Garrison’s development will be crucial for Kentucky’s success in the 2025–26 season. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively will be vital as the Wildcats aim to contend for SEC titles and make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. With a talented and cohesive roster, Kentucky is well-positioned to achieve its goals in the upcoming season.
