July 11, 2025

Kentucky Women’s Basketball Adds Transfer Josie Gilvin

News Summary

The Kentucky women’s basketball team has officially welcomed Josie Gilvin, a talented 6-foot guard and Louisville native, as their first transfer commitment for the upcoming season. Formerly with Western Kentucky University, Gilvin brings impressive stats, including 13.1 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, along with her accolades from the previous season. With a strong background in Kentucky basketball, her addition is aimed at enhancing the roster’s competitiveness after a challenging NCAA Tournament exit.

Kentucky Welcomes Transfer Josie Gilvin from WKU

Lexington, Kentucky – The Kentucky women’s basketball team has made a significant addition to its roster, welcoming Louisville native Josie Gilvin as its first transfer commitment for the upcoming season. Gilvin, a 6-foot guard formerly of Western Kentucky University (WKU), announced her decision via social media, signaling her intent to join the Wildcats for the 2025-26 season.

During her recent season at WKU, Gilvin had impressive statistics, averaging 13.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.6 steals per game. Her performance earned her a spot on the 2024-25 All-Conference USA Second Team as well as the CUSA All-Defensive Team. Notably, she displayed exceptional shooting skills, boasting an overall shooting percentage of 53.2% and a 41.3% accuracy from three-point range.

After entering the transfer portal on March 25, Gilvin visited the University of Kentucky the weekend prior, ultimately deciding to join the Wildcats. She brings with her a wealth of experience, having played in 97 games at the Division I level and starting all 32 games during the last season. Earlier in her career, Gilvin faced Kentucky in a matchup on December 28, 2024, where she recorded 10 points, three rebounds, and two steals.

Gilvin’s Background and Heritage

Josie Gilvin has deep roots in Kentucky basketball, having grown up in Louisville and attended Sacred Heart Academy. In 2022, she was recognized as a candidate for Miss Kentucky Basketball and played a crucial role in helping her high school team secure back-to-back state championships. Gilvin’s basketball legacy continues in her family, with her mother, Dayna McGrath (Gilvin), having played at the University of Louisville.

Impact on Kentucky’s Roster

With Gilvin’s addition, the Kentucky roster now includes nine players as they prepare for the upcoming season. This consists of seven returning players and one incoming freshman, Kaelyn Carroll, a highly-touted top-15 recruit for 2025. Following a disappointing exit from the NCAA Tournament against Kansas State, where several players departed the program, the Wildcats were in need of reinforcements to bolster their roster.

Coach’s Expectations

Coach Kenny Brooks has noted Gilvin’s physical attributes and ability to shoot from outside as key factors in her recruitment, anticipating that her skills will provide valuable depth to Kentucky’s backcourt. With her proven track record and strong performance at WKU, Gilvin is expected to make a significant contribution to the Wildcats in the upcoming season.

The addition of Josie Gilvin marks a promising step for Kentucky’s women’s basketball program as it looks to rebuild and enhance its competitiveness in the league.