Congratulations Collins: Kentucky Star Player Collins Chandler Invites All Kentucky Wildcats Teammates, Fans, and Officials to His Wedding Holding On…
By Wildcats Daily News | Updated May 10, 2025
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In a heartwarming turn of events that has sent waves of excitement through the Big Blue Nation, Kentucky Wildcats basketball star Collins Chandler has made a personal and profound announcement that has captured the attention of fans, teammates, and university officials alike. On Friday morning, Chandler officially announced his upcoming wedding and extended an open invitation to every member of the Wildcats family — including teammates, coaches, officials, and even the ever-loyal fanbase — to attend the most special day of his life.
This extraordinary gesture of inclusion and celebration has already sparked buzz throughout the Kentucky community and beyond, with fans praising the rising star not only for his athleticism on the court but for his humility, kindness, and deep-rooted connection to his Kentucky roots.
A Wedding Like No Other: “You’ve Been With Me Every Step of the Way”
Chandler, who has quickly become a household name in college basketball, shared the news via a touching video posted to his official Instagram account and later shared by the University of Kentucky’s athletic department.
> “From the moment I put on the blue and white, I’ve felt nothing but love and support. This journey has been more than just basketball — it’s been about family,” Chandler said in the video. “As I take the next step in my life, I want to celebrate this moment with the people who’ve been with me through the highs and lows. That means every Wildcat — my teammates, my coaches, the staff, and yes, our amazing fans. You’re invited to my wedding!”
The video features clips from his early days at Kentucky, game highlights, moments with fans, and emotional behind-the-scenes footage showing just how much the team has meant to him. Ending with a save-the-date graphic, Chandler revealed the wedding will be held on June 15, 2025, in Lexington, Kentucky — just miles from the campus that changed his life.
From Star Recruit to Team Leader
Collins Chandler first burst onto the scene as one of Kentucky’s top recruits in 2022, choosing the Wildcats over a host of other powerhouse programs. Over the past few seasons, Chandler has transformed from a promising freshman to a dominant force on the court — known for his sharp shooting, intense defense, and unrivaled work ethic.
Off the court, Chandler has become a respected leader, often seen encouraging younger teammates and participating in numerous community service projects. His popularity among fans is not just due to his game-day performance, but also because of his down-to-earth demeanor and strong moral compass.
This announcement, though surprising in its scope, feels true to the character of a player who has never seen himself as separate from the people who cheer him on.
An Invitation to the Blue Nation
The announcement that fans are welcome at the wedding has sparked an outpouring of responses on social media. Hashtags like #ChandlerWedding, #BBNWedding, and #BigBlueBrideAndGroom are now trending on X (formerly Twitter), as fans express both joy and disbelief.
UK Athletics also confirmed that plans are being made to accommodate fan attendance, with a special open-air celebration area being set up near the main venue. Officials are reportedly coordinating with local authorities and campus security to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Coach Mark Pope, who took over as head coach after John Calipari’s departure, also released a statement:
> “Collins has always exemplified what it means to be a Wildcat. His loyalty, heart, and team-first attitude are unmatched. We’re proud of him and thrilled to celebrate this next chapter with him and his bride-to-be.”
A Private Love Story, Now Public
Although Collins Chandler has often kept his personal life out of the media spotlight, fans have long speculated about his relationship with Layla Brooks, a graduate student and Kentucky native. The two met during Chandler’s sophomore year at a charity basketball camp where Layla was volunteering.
Over the past year, the two have been spotted at multiple community events together and occasionally shared photos online. According to close friends, the proposal happened in early April during a quiet walk at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary — a local favorite in Lexington.
Layla, known for her volunteer work, academic excellence, and natural charm, has quickly won over the hearts of fans just as Chandler did.
A Celebration of Unity and Love
The wedding is shaping up to be more than just a private celebration — it’s a community affair that symbolizes the unity of Kentucky’s basketball family. From former players and coaching legends to die-hard fans who never miss a game at Rupp Arena, all will have a role in celebrating this occasion.
Vendors and local businesses have also begun offering discounts and giveaways for fans attending the wedding weekend. Lexington hotels are expected to be booked solid as fans travel from around the state — and the country — to be part of what is shaping up to be the biggest Wildcats-related event of the offseason.
Fans lucky enough to attend are encouraged to wear Wildcat blue, with Chandler himself requesting that the wedding have “a splash of BBN spirit.”
“This Is Just the Beginning…”
As Collins Chandler prepares to step into this new phase of his life, his message is clear: no matter how far he goes in basketball — whether it’s an NBA future or a life of service — he will always be Kentucky at heart.
> “This wedding is about more than me and Layla,” Chandler said in closing. “It’s about everyone who helped me get here. It’s about BBN. And I want all of you to be part of it.”
For fans, it’s another reminder that their heroes are not just athletes — but real people who value connection, loyalty, and shared memories.
And for Chandler, it’s a dream that keeps on giving — on and off the court.
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RSVP and Event Info:
Date: June 15, 2025
Location: Lexington, KY (specific venue TBA)
Fan Attendance: Open Celebration Area (tickets/registration will be available on UK Athletics site)
Dress Code: Wildcats Blue encouraged
Hashtags: #ChandlerWedding #BBNForever #BigBlueLove
Stay tuned for updates as more details are released. Until then — congratulations to Collins and Layla from all of us in the Big Blue Nation!
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