Kentucky issues statement on Ivisic admission rumors

A general view of the game between Kentucky Wildcats and Wofford Terriers during the first half in the second round of the 2019 NCAA Tournament at Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. Matt Stamey-USA TODAY Sports

Kentucky issues statement on Zvonimir Ivisic admission rumors

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Renzo Pocholo Salao | Last updated 9/5/23

The Kentucky Wildcats were expecting Croatian recruit Zvonimir Ivisic on campus last week. But with the 7-foot-2 big man still nowhere to be found at Lexington, the speculation has begun to swirl on the basketball prospect’s admission status.

Kentucky Sports Radio host Matt Jones released an update on Ivisic Monday stating that the UK admissions office is “blocking” the 20-year-old’s admission to the school. The main issue is reportedly Ivisic’s English equivalency exam. Jones asserted that while the Croatian has passed a language proficiency exam, it is not one accepted by the school.

The university posted a response on X via spokesperson Jay Blanton. Blanton called the speculation surrounding Ivisic “misinformation.”

A statement from UK spokesperson Jay Blanton:

“Unfortunately, misinformation is being perpetuated regarding the admission status of someone wishing to attend the University of Kentucky. The truth is members of our university – from our athletics department to our administration…

— University of Kentucky (@universityofky) September 5, 2023

Jones gave an update of his own two hours after Kentucky’s official statement on Ivisic. Jones affirmed that the English equivalency exam remains the major roadblock toward Jones’ admission, but Ivisic could “still get in” depending on UK admissions.

After speaking with a number of people today, I feel like I have a good grasp on Ivisic situation

Bottom line:

Its not over. He can still get in.

But it is an admissions decision

The English equivalency exam is the primary holdup. Visa, NCAA clearance, etc can’t come until…

— Matt Jones (@KySportsRadio) September 5, 2023

Ivisic first emerged as an international prospect after a standout performance at the 2019 U16 Euro Championships. He most recently played for Montenegrin team Studentski Centar Podgorica.

Ivisic averaged 7.1 points and 5.1 rebounds in 33 games played during his side’s 2022-23 season.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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