The NCAA has granted Andrija Jelavic immediate eligibility, allowing him to suit up without delay. This decision clears the way for the newcomer to contribute right away, giving his team an early boost for the upcoming season.

There’s no drama surrounding Andrija Jelavic’s status he’s officially cleared to play.

A UK spokesperson confirmed to KSR that the 6-foot-11 Croatian forward has been granted immediate eligibility by the NCAA following its review, just as the program had anticipated.

With the clearance finalized, Jelavic can now fully participate in all team activities, starting with UK’s Pro Day this week, then Big Blue Madness, the Blue-White Game, and exhibition matchups against Purdue and Georgetown to wrap up the month.

Jelavic, a native of Croatia, brings international experience after spending the past two seasons with Mega Superbet in Serbia’s Adriatic League.

In 29 games last season, the 6-foot-11 forward averaged 11.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.0 steal in 27.5 minutes per game.

He shot efficiently overall, hitting 48.5% from the field, 30.5% from three-point range, and 69.4% at the free-throw line, showcasing a well-rounded skill set that should bolster Kentucky’s frontcourt depth.

Jelavic committed to Kentucky in April and officially joined the team in August after completing his stint with Mega Superbet and finishing his academic requirements overseas.

He missed the Wildcats’ eight-week summer session but arrived ready to integrate into the program ahead of the season.

The recruiting process was straightforward for the Croatian forward once Kentucky showed interest, Jelavic didn’t hesitate. He committed almost immediately, drawn by the program’s tradition and opportunity.

“The moment Mark Pope called me and said that he wanted me to be a part of this team this year and everything, I instantly said, ‘Yes, I want to be here,’” he told BBN Tonight in September. “We didn’t even talk about the details and everything. I instantly committed.

“He said, ‘Tell your agent that you want to commit.’ I told him and I instantly committed I didn’t even talk to the other college coaches. So Mark Pope was the first and only coach I spoke to about that.”

There was no drama in Jelavic’s recruitment, and now there’s none with his eligibility either.

With everything settled off the court, the Croatian forward is officially cleared and ready to suit up for the Wildcats this season.