O'Neal reveals Kentucky was his top college choice
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 13, 2026, 10:44 AM
Last updated Jul 13, 2026
Jermaine O'Neal disclosed on the Str8 to Da League podcast that the University of Kentucky was his preferred choice coming out of high school. He mentioned that Rick Pitino actively recruited him with several in-home visits, noting his family's admiration for Pitino's honesty. O'Neal ultimately chose to enter the NBA Draft instead of attending college. This revelation highlights the intense recruitment process that shaped his early career decisions.
- •Jermaine O'Neal shared his recruitment experience.
- •Rick Pitino made multiple in-home visits.
- •O'Neal's mother had a favorable opinion of Pitino.
- •O'Neal opted for the NBA Draft over college.
- •His decision was influenced by Pitino's honesty.
- 10:44 AMYahoo Sports — O'Neal shared that Kentucky was his top choice coming …
"O'Neal shared that Kentucky was his top choice coming …
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