Kyle Wiltjer Transferring to Gonzaga

Jan 15, 2013; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Kyle Wiltjer (33) and Tennessee Volunteers forward Jarnell Stokes (5) during the game at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated Tennessee 75-65. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

According to Jeff Borzello of CBS, Kyle Wiltjer will be transferring to Gonzaga. The news has been learned through Wiltjer’s father. The rumors had been circling around for months that Wiltjer would be transferring away from the Kentucky Wildcats, and the Gonzaga Bulldogs were the favorites but nothing had been confirmed. Until today that is.

The smooth shooting Wiltjer averaged 10.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.5 assists with the Wildcats last season as a sophomore. Originally part of the amazing recruiting class that also included Anthony Davis and Michael Kidd Gilchrist, Wiltjer will bring big time experience and skill to the Bulldogs.

Last year, Gonzaga was the first overall seed in the NCAA tournament but was upset in the second round. Since then, they have lost their star big man, Kelly Olynyk, to the NBA and will be looking to rebound from their disappointing end of season. The addition of Wiltjer makes them a more dangerous and skilled team.

It is likely that Wiltjer is transferring away from the Wildcats because of the influx of talent coming in from this year’s recruiting class. Having committed six players with 5 star rankings and returning two starters from last year’s team, it is highly unlikely Wiltjer would have played as much as he would have liked for Kentucky. At Gonzaga, the playing time will be there and he will have a chance to show that he is more than just a three point shooter.

As per transfer rules, Wiltjer will have to sit out this year’s NCAA season but will be eligible again come 2014-15.