Photo | UK Athletics
Zan Payne Will Work his Way into a Role at Kentucky
Zan Payne, the son of associate head coach Kenny Payne, has officially joined the Kentucky men’s basketball team. The University of Kentucky made the announcement official on Monday.
Payne comes to Kentucky from Lexington Catholic High School, where he scored more than 1,000 career points. He will fill a walk-on role at Kentucky, and he’s excited for the opportunity.
Related: Payne Playing at Kentucky is Very Important for the Future
“I am very excited to a part of the Big Blue Nation,” Payne said in a press release through UK. “Over the last eight years, I’ve seen the best of the best players and teams in college basketball come through Lexington, and to be a part of the tradition is a dream come true. For Coach Cal to allow me this extraordinary opportunity, words can’t express my gratitude and appreciation.”
Payne averaged 19.3 points and 8.7 rebounds during his senior season at Lexington Catholic. He finished his career 14th in school history with 1,282 points and fourth in rebounds with 934.
“Every conversation Kenny and I have had about Zan has been about what’s best for Zan,” UK head coach John Calipari said. “I wanted Kenny to take the same approach with Zan that I had with Brad. Let the kid do what’s best for him and be there to support them. We’ve always been an option for him, but we wanted Zan to make this decision on his own. I’m so happy he’s decided to stay at home with us because he’s an underrated talent who is going to bring a lot of depth to our team. Like his dad, he’s got a fighter’s mentality and there is no doubt in my mind he’s going to scratch and claw his way to a role on this team once he get his knee healthy. One of the most gratifying times of my coaching career has been watching Brad grow and develop to the man he is today, and I’m so happy Kenny and Zan get that experience now. It will be fun to watch.”
