Rhode Island transfer Jacob Toppin is now eligible

Exciting news that will likely be overshadowed by the news of Olivier Sarr, is that Jacob Toppin has also been granted immediate eligibility at Kentucky.

The Rhode Island transfer who is also the little brother of Dayton star and AP Player of the Year, Obi Toppin, will be a great addition to this years roster. "This is a big day for me and I want to thank the NCAA and my Kentucky family for their help in this process," said Toppin, who transferred to UK in April. "I can't wait to get on the court with this group of guys and play in front of our fans."

"I'm excited for Olivier and Jacob," UK head coach John Calipari said. "Both have worked really hard and deserve this opportunity. They were both hopping and skipping out of my office after getting the news because they've been waiting on this day. I want to thank the NCAA and the SEC for considering the unique circumstances surrounding this season and we appreciate them working with us throughout this process."

Calipari went on to say, "Jacob came here needing a fresh start. From day one, he's been a great teammate and been an important part of this group in practice. He has tremendous upside and a great spirit about him."

Toppin became an immediate contributor for a Rhode Island team that went 21-9 on the season and finished 13-5 in the Atlantic 10. He scored in double figures five times in his freshman season, highlighted by 12 points and eight rebounds vs. Richmond, a potential at-large NCAA Tournament team this past season, and 12 points in 11 minutes vs. Saint Joseph's.  He also performed well vs. his future SEC foes Alabama and LSU, scoring 11 points and 10, respectively, in nonconference play.

His athleticism is INSANE.

It's safe to say Kentucky is loaded this year and I can't wait to watch this team chase TITLE NINE.