Kentucky transfer Sahvir Wheeler takes visit to... Georgia?
Two years in Athens, two years in Lexington, then one final year back in Athens? It’s on the table for Sahvir Wheeler, who is set to take a visit to Georgia this weekend as he explores his transfer options.
The 5-foot-9 point guard came to Kentucky after starting his career as a Bulldog back in 2019-20. Now, a potential return to his first stop is being considered, On3’s Joe Tipton reported Friday.
Wheeler finished his time at Kentucky in the top five of total SEC assists (656) to go with 1,107 career points and 11 double-doubles in 85 starts. As a Wildcat, the native of Houston, TX averaging 9.1 points, 6.3 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per game while shooting 43.2 percent overall from the field in 51 total appearances, 43 being starts.
During his first run in Athens, Wheeler averaged 9.0 points and 4.5 rebounds as a freshman before exploding for an average of 14.0 points, 7.4 assists and 1.7 steals per contest as a sophomore, all career highs.
The Bulldogs joined Kansas State, Texas A&M and Baylor as the first schools rumored to have interest in the former Bob Cousy Award finalist, with K-State seen as the early favorite thanks to a prior connection on the coaching staff in Ulric Maligi — Wheeler signed with Texas A&M when the standout assistant was in College Station under head coach Billy Kennedy.
Washington is also interested, with A&M now falling back in his recruitment — the Aggies like Wheeler, but they are in search of a backup point guard and understand the veteran guard is looking for a starting role, sources tell KSR.
Wheeler entered the transfer portal back on March 27, the first Wildcat to announce his future plans at the conclusion of Kentucky’s season.
“For the past two years you all have been nothing short of amazing,” the senior guard wrote. “Some of my greatest memories that I will take away from my time at Kentucky will be my time spent interacting with the fans. The community service opportunities that I was able to participate in with you all were invaluable and I will always be thankful.
“To my teammates, we have made so many memorable moments. We competed everyday, committed to making each other better, and I would not change that experience. Each one of you has made an impact on me and I consider you all brothers for life. Playing alongside you guys has truly been a dream come true.
“To Coach Cal and all the staff, thank you for giving me the opportunity to represent such a prominent university. With that being said, I look forward to graduating from the University of Kentucky this May and have entered the transfer portal as a graduate transfer.”
John Calipari wished his former point guard well as he looked to explore his options elsewhere, adding that he supported his decision to move on.
“I talked with Sahvir a few days ago and he decided that he wants to graduate and play one more year because of the injuries he faced this year,” Calipari said. “He also wanted a fresh start, and I supported his decision. Sahvir has been a big part of our team and we wish him nothing but the best.”
Is a return to Athens on the horizon? He’ll be there this weekend.
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