Collin Chandler Shows He's More Than Just a Dunker in Kentucky’s Win Over Texas
For a while now, Collin Chandler’s name has been synonymous with jaw-dropping athleticism. The kind of above-the-rim explosiveness that wins dunk contests - which he’s done at Kentucky’s Big Blue Madness two years running - and floods social media with highlight clips.
But Chandler’s game has always had more layers than just the flashy finishes. And on Wednesday night at Rupp Arena, he peeled back that curtain for everyone to see.
In Kentucky’s 85-80 win over Texas, Chandler didn’t just soar - he stepped up. The sophomore guard delivered a career-best 18 points on an efficient 5-of-9 shooting, including 2-for-4 from deep, and knocked down all six of his free throws. He also grabbed a personal-high seven rebounds, tying freshman big man Malachi Moreno for the team lead on the glass.
This wasn’t just a dunk show. It was a complete performance - and one that came at the exact moment the Wildcats needed it.
With Kentucky’s rotation thinning due to injuries, Chandler’s emergence couldn’t be better timed. Starting point guard Jaland Lowe is out for the season.
Jayden Quaintance, the freshman forward expected to be a defensive anchor, missed his fourth straight game. And just when it looked like Kam Williams was settling into a key role, he exited in the second half with a foot injury.
His status moving forward remains uncertain.
That leaves Kentucky looking for stability - and Chandler made his case to be part of that solution.
Senior Otega Oweh, as usual, delivered with 18 points of his own. Denzel Aberdeen led the team with 19 and continues to trend upward.
But beyond that duo, the Wildcats have been searching for a consistent third option. Chandler just threw his hat in that ring, and not just with dunks - though he had two of those on fast breaks that brought the Rupp crowd to its feet.
What stood out more was his poise. He didn’t force shots.
He rebounded with purpose. He played within the offense and made his minutes count.
It was the kind of effort that doesn’t just fill the stat sheet - it builds trust with coaches and teammates alike.
If this performance is a sign of things to come, Chandler could be a major X-factor for a Kentucky team that’s still figuring out its identity in the SEC grind. The Wildcats improved to 13-6 overall and 4-2 in conference play with the win, while Texas dropped to 11-8 and 2-4.
With depth being tested and roles shifting, Chandler’s timing couldn’t be better. Wednesday night wasn’t just a breakout - it was a statement.
He’s not just an athlete. He’s a ballplayer.
And Kentucky might need every bit of what he showed moving forward.