Adou Thiero, a former forward for Kentucky and likely first-round pick in the 2025 NBA draft, told ESPN on Monday that he is following John Calipari and transferring to Arkansas.

After reviewing a lengthy list of universities, Thiero decided to focus on Pitt, Kentucky, Indiana, North Carolina, and the Razorbacks last month.

“I started with Coach Cal and want to see it through with him,” he stated. “Very excited to join the family and ready to get to work.”

A 6-foot-8 forward from Leetsdale, Pennsylvania, Thiero is ranked No. 27 in ESPN’s 2025 NBA draft rankings. He started 19 games this past 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, putting up 16 points and 13 rebounds against Kansas in the Champions Classic; 15 points, 5 boards and 3 blocks against Gonzaga; and 14 points and 8 rebounds in a win over Auburn.

Thiero took a clear step forward from his freshman season, when he averaged 2.3 points and 1.9 rebounds in 20 games.

His development under Calipari and familiarity with the Hall of Fame head coach gave Arkansas the edge for his commitment.

“He’s known for putting guys in the NBA that also stay in the NBA and coach Kenny Payne, who is now with him again, was also there for some of those years,” Thiero added. “After already playing for him and developing after two years, I feel that he knows my game and will put me in the right position to succeed and achieve my goals.”

Along with incoming freshman Boogie Fland, Karter Knox, Billy Richmond, and rising sophomore center Zvonimir Ivisic, Thiero becomes the fifth player to accompany Calipari from Lexington to Fayetteville. In addition, the Razorbacks are adding all-SEC center Jonas Aidoo from Tennessee and top-five transfer Johnell Davis from Florida Atlantic.