Ohio State Transfer Andrija Jelavic Brings Kentucky Experience and Croatian Roots to Columbus

The 6-foot-11 forward hopes to continue his growth in the Big Ten after a season at Kentucky.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:26pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a basketball player in motion, with their body and movements fragmented into sharp, geometric shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette.Jelavic's international roots and unique playing style will be on full display as he transitions to the physical Big Ten conference.Columbus Today

Andrija Jelavic, a 6-foot-11 forward, has transferred from Kentucky to Ohio State, bringing his experience playing in the Southeastern Conference and his Croatian basketball roots to the Buckeyes. Jelavic chose to wear number four in honor of Croatian legend Dražen Petrović, whose influence on the game and personal connection to Jelavic's family runs deep. After a year of adjusting to the faster pace and physicality of American college basketball, Jelavic is ready to take on the challenges of the Big Ten conference.

Why it matters

Jelavic's transfer to Ohio State adds size and experience to the Buckeyes' frontcourt, as they look to build on a solid 2025-26 season and compete for a Big Ten title. His international background and connection to Croatian basketball royalty also bring an intriguing personal story to the Ohio State program.

The details

At Kentucky last season, Jelavic appeared in 32 games with 20 starts, averaging 5.5 points and 4.0 rebounds in just over 15 minutes per game. Prior to that, he developed professionally with Mega Bemax in the Adriatic League, where he averaged 10.4 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. Jelavic noted that the faster pace and physicality of American college basketball was an adjustment, but one that fits his playing style. He chose to wear number four in honor of Croatian legend Dražen Petrović, whose influence on the global game and personal connection to Jelavic's family is significant.

  • Jelavic appeared in 32 games with 20 starts for Kentucky during the 2025-26 season.
  • Prior to Kentucky, Jelavic developed professionally with Mega Bemax in the Adriatic League.

The players

Andrija Jelavic

A 6-foot-11 forward who has transferred from Kentucky to Ohio State, bringing his experience playing in the SEC and his Croatian basketball roots to the Buckeyes.

Dražen Petrović

A Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductee and one of the most influential European players ever, whose number four jersey Jelavic chose to wear in honor of his legacy.

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What they’re saying

“I chose number four because he wore number four for the Croatian national team.”

— Andrija Jelavic, Ohio State Transfer

“He's like a legend. In many people's opinion, the best European player of all time. The love for him runs in the family.”

— Andrija Jelavic, Ohio State Transfer

“When I came here, not just the play style but the practice itself moves much faster. We don't have pauses. We just go from one thing to another...It's more physical. When you catch the ball in the paint, four guys are already on you.”

— Andrija Jelavic, Ohio State Transfer

“All 12 or 14 guys can be drafted. Every time you guard someone, that guy is a potential draft pick.”

— Andrija Jelavic, Ohio State Transfer

“He told me not to eat too much Papa John's.”

— Andrija Jelavic, Ohio State Transfer

What’s next

Jelavic will look to make an immediate impact for Ohio State as they prepare for the 2026-27 Big Ten season. His size, experience, and international background could provide a valuable boost to the Buckeyes' frontcourt.

The takeaway

Andrija Jelavic's transfer to Ohio State adds an intriguing blend of size, skill, and personal story to the Buckeyes' roster. His connection to Croatian basketball legend Dražen Petrović and his experience adjusting to the faster pace of American college basketball should serve him well as he looks to make his mark in the Big Ten.