Why Jayden Quaintance Committed to Kentucky — Again

Jayden Quaintance’s journey back to Kentucky is a story of second chances, strong relationships, and unfinished business. After originally committing to Kentucky in 2023 before decommitting and heading to Arizona State, the talented forward has found his way back to Lexington — and this time, he's confident it's where he belongs.

Appearing on Kentucky Sports Radio Tuesday morning, Quaintance opened up about his decision to return to the Wildcats and the factors that made the program feel like home once again.

“The fanbase for Kentucky is probably one of the best — probably is the best in college basketball, period,” Quaintance told KSR. “And the coach showed a lot of interest. He seems like he genuinely thought I fit really well in their program. I feel like I fit well into their play style and offense. I just thought it was pretty good for me.”

Quaintance, a former five-star recruit, initially considered staying at Kentucky after John Calipari left for Arkansas, even taking time to hear out new head coach Mark Pope’s pitch. But ultimately, he landed at Arizona State, where he made an immediate impact. He averaged 9.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game, earning Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Defensive team honors.

But a torn ACL in late February cut his season short. Now, as he rehabs from surgery — which he says is ahead of schedule — Quaintance is refocused and determined to make his mark in Lexington. 

“Rehab’s been going really well,” he said. “I’ve been ahead of schedule. The scar is healing up well, I’m getting a lot of swelling down, getting my quad strengthened really well... We’re aiming to get back around September.”

One of the key influences in his return? 2025 Kentucky commit Jasper Johnson. 

“My guy, Jasper Johnson, he was a big part of kind of helping me lean towards Kentucky,” Quaintance shared. “He’s been talking about how much he loves the environment and situation and the fans and the coaching... So my guy Jasper has helped me a lot in kind of getting here.”

With Pope at the helm and a supportive core of players and fans behind him, Quaintance’s return gives Kentucky a defensive anchor with high-upside potential. If his rehab continues on pace, he could be a game-changer early in the 2025–26 season. For Quaintance, the second time around feels right — and for Big Blue Nation, it couldn’t come at a better time.