Former Kentucky forward Adou Thiero, a projected first-round pick in the 2025 NBA draft, is following John Calipari and will transfer to Arkansas, he told ESPN on Monday.
Thiero considered a long list of schools, and last month narrowed it down to Pitt, Kentucky, Indiana, North Carolina and the Razorbacks.
“I started with Coach Cal and I want to continue with him,” he said. “Very excited to join the family and ready to get to work.”
Thiero, a 6-foot-8 forward from Leetsdale, Pennsylvania, is ranked No. 27 in ESPN's 2025 NBA draft rankings. He started 19 games last season for Calipari at Kentucky, averaging 7.2 points and 5.0 rebounds in 21.3 minutes. Some of the sophomore's best contributions came in the Wildcats' toughest games, posting 16 points and 13 rebounds against Kansas in the Champions Classic; 15 points, 5 rebounds and 3 blocks against Gonzaga; and 14 points and 8 rebounds in the victory over Auburn.
Thiero took a clear step forward compared to his first season, when he averaged 2.3 points and 1.9 rebounds in 20 games.
His development under Calipari and his familiarity with the Hall of Fame head coach gave Arkansas the advantage for his commitment.
“He's known for putting guys in the NBA who also stay in the NBA and coach Kenny Payne, who's back with him now, was there for some of those years as well,” Thiero said. “After playing for him and developing over two years, I feel like he knows my game and will put me in the right position to succeed and achieve my goals.”
Thiero becomes the fifth player to follow Calipari from Lexington to Fayetteville, joining incoming freshmen Boogie Fland, Karter Knox and Billy Richmond and rising sophomore center Zvonimir Ivisic. The Razorbacks will also add top-five pick Johnell Davis from Florida Atlantic and SEC big man Jonas Aidoo from Tennessee.
Jonathan Givony is an NBA Draft expert and founder and co-owner of DraftExpress.com, a private scouting and analysis service used by NBA, NCAA and international teams.
