Jaxon Kohler Down to Final 2: Decision Coming Thursday
Michigan State Transfer Jaxon Kohler Set to Announce College Decision Today
What’s Happening Right Now
Imagine you’re picking between two really awesome ice cream flavors, but instead of ice cream, it’s college basketball teams, and instead of you deciding, it’s a 6-foot-11-inch basketball player named Jaxon Kohler. That’s exactly what’s happening today!
IMPORTANT NEWS ALERT
Jaxon Kohler is expected to announce his decision TODAY (Thursday) — possibly as early as this afternoon! Both BYU and Kentucky made their final pitches yesterday, and now everyone is waiting to see which team he chooses.
Who Is Jaxon Kohler?
Let’s break it down simply:
- Position: Forward (that means he plays near the basket and can score, rebound, and defend)
- Height: 6 feet 11 inches tall — that’s taller than most doorframes!
- Previous School: Michigan State University (he played there before)
- Current Status: A "transfer" — this means he’s moving from one college team to another
The Journey to Two Finalists
Jaxon didn’t just wake up with two choices. Here’s how it happened:
-
Started with FOUR schools interested in him:
- BYU (Brigham Young University)
- Kentucky (University of Kentucky)
- Louisville (University of Louisville)
- Kansas (University of Kansas)
-
Narrowed it down to TWO finalists:
- BYU Cougars
- Kentucky Wildcats
- Cut the other two (Louisville and Kansas) from his list
The Final Pitches — Wednesday’s Big Meetings
Both remaining teams got one last chance to convince Jaxon on Wednesday. Here’s what happened:
Kentucky’s Turn (Morning/Afternoon)
- Format: 2.5-hour Zoom call (that’s a really long video meeting!)
- Who: Kentucky coaching staff, including head coach Mark Pope
- Goal: Show Jaxon why Kentucky is the perfect fit
BYU’s Turn (Evening)
- Format: Evening conversation/meeting
- Who: BYU coaching staff
- Goal: Make their final case for why Jaxon should come to Provo, Utah
INSIDER INFO
"We met with both sides, and we’re gonna announce something today… We have to do it today." — Source close to the situation, speaking to KSR (Kentucky Sports Radio)
Why This Matters
For Kentucky Fans (Big Blue Nation)
- Coach Mark Pope is in a pivotal season — this could be a huge building block
- Adding a 6’11" forward with Big Ten experience (Michigan State plays in the tough Big Ten conference)
- Shows the program can still attract top talent
For BYU Fans
- Continuing to build momentum in the Big 12 conference
- Adding size and experience to their frontcourt
- Proving they can compete with "blue blood" programs like Kentucky
What Happens Next?
| Time | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Today (Thursday) | DECISION ANNOUNCEMENT — Could be any minute! |
| After Announcement | Official signing paperwork, press conference, social media reveal |
| Summer | Jaxon joins his new team for workouts and practices |
| Fall/Winter 2025-26 | Game time! Jaxon suits up for his new school |
Summary
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read):
- Michigan State transfer Jaxon Kohler (6’11" forward) is choosing between BYU and Kentucky
- He had 4 options, cut to 2 finalists
- Both schools made final pitches Wednesday (Kentucky: 2.5-hour Zoom; BYU: evening meeting)
- ANNOUNCEMENT EXPECTED TODAY (THURSDAY) — possibly this afternoon!
- This is a big deal for both programs heading into the 2025-26 season
FAQ — Your Questions Answered
What does "transfer" mean in college basketball?
A transfer is when a player leaves one college team to play for another. Since 2021, players can transfer one time without having to sit out a year (this used to be a rule!). Jaxon played at Michigan State and now gets to play immediately at his new school.
Why did he narrow it down from 4 to 2 schools?
Players usually start with a longer list, visit campuses, talk to coaches, and then cut the list as they learn more. Getting to the "final two" means he’s done his homework and is ready to decide.
What’s a "Zoom call" in recruiting?
During COVID, the NCAA allowed virtual visits via Zoom. They stuck around because they’re convenient! A 2.5-hour Zoom means Kentucky spent serious time showing Jaxon their plan for him, facilities, academics, and culture — all virtually.
Who is Mark Pope?
Mark Pope is Kentucky’s head basketball coach. He played at Kentucky in the 1990s, coached at BYU (2019-2024), and returned to Kentucky in 2024. Fun fact: He coached at BYU, so he knows that program inside and out!
When will Jaxon actually play games?
College basketball season starts in November 2025. But he’ll join his new team this summer for workouts, practices, and building chemistry with teammates before the season starts.
STAY TUNED!
Refresh your feeds — Jaxon Kohler’s decision could drop ANY MINUTE NOW! Whether he picks the Wildcats or the Cougars, one fanbase is about to get very excited.