Kentucky Guard Collin Chandler Emerges as Breakout Star

Sophomore sharpshooter has become one of the nation's most improved players this season.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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In his sophomore season, Kentucky guard Collin Chandler has made a major leap, improving his 3-point shooting from 34.7% to 43.1% (46.1% in SEC play). Chandler has become a clutch performer, hitting game-winning and dagger shots for the Wildcats. While his offense has taken a big step forward, Chandler's focus on defense remains an area for improvement.

Why it matters

Chandler's emergence as a breakout star is crucial for Kentucky's success this season and their hopes of making a deep NCAA Tournament run. His ability to hit timely 3-pointers has made him a go-to option for the Wildcats in crunch time.

The details

After averaging just 10.4 minutes per game as a freshman, Chandler has become a consistent starter for Kentucky this season. His 3-point shooting percentage has skyrocketed from 34.7% to 43.1% overall and an impressive 46.1% in SEC play. Chandler has hit several game-winning and dagger shots for the Wildcats, showcasing his clutch gene. However, he still struggles at times with focus on the defensive end, sometimes going under screens or trying to help too much down low.

  • Chandler averaged 10.4 minutes per game as a freshman last season.
  • This season, Chandler's 3-point shooting percentage has jumped from 34.7% to 43.1% overall and 46.1% in SEC play.
  • Chandler hit a game-winning shot against Tennessee and a dagger 3-pointer this week against South Carolina.

The players

Collin Chandler

A 6'5" sophomore guard for the Kentucky Wildcats who has emerged as a breakout star this season, significantly improving his 3-point shooting and becoming a clutch performer for the team.

Mark Pope

The head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats in his first season with the program.

Myron Medcalf

A writer who included Chandler on his list of the top 25 breakout stars in college basketball this season.

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What they’re saying

“Chandler has been a consistent starter for Kentucky, a season after averaging 10.4 minutes. The 6-foot-5 guard has made one of the nation's most impressive leaps as a shooter over the last year, jumping from a 34.7% clip from 3-point range a season ago to 43.1% this season (including 46.1% in SEC play).”

— Myron Medcalf (si.com)

What’s next

If Chandler can continue to improve his decision-making on offense as a passer and his focus on defense, he will be one of the premier guards in college basketball next season. Kentucky will need Chandler to keep hitting big shots from 3-point range if they want to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Collin Chandler's breakout sophomore season has been a crucial development for Kentucky, as his sharpshooting and clutch performance have made him a go-to option for the Wildcats. His continued growth on both ends of the floor will be key to Kentucky's success this year and in the future.