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Kentucky Basketball: Flashback to Tubby Smith’s 2004 recruiting class

By Tyler Reeder

Feb 16, 2017; Hartford, CT, USA; Memphis Tigers head coach Tubby Smith watches from the sideline as they take on the Connecticut Huskies in the second half at XL Center. UConn defeated Memphis 65-62. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 16, 2017; Hartford, CT, USA; Memphis Tigers head coach Tubby Smith watches from the sideline as they take on the Connecticut Huskies in the second half at XL Center. UConn defeated Memphis 65-62. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /
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Rajon Rondo

Rajon Rondo, sans the attitude, was a very productive player. He committed January 27th, 2004, on a day that could arguably rival a Calipari-esque day on the recruiting trail. He and Joe Crawford, both rated high 5-star recruits, pledged to the Wildcats that day. An unprecedented day for Tubby Smith as he locked up a starting guard tandem that could be argued as best in the country…as freshman. Sound familiar?

Rondo had a very strong two seasons with the Wildcats. The native Kentuckian (transferred from Eastern HS in Louisville to Oak Hill Academy), was a menace on the defensive side of the ball, still holding the Kentucky single season steals record (87) obtained in his freshman year. He could also dish the ball, racking up 285 assists in his career which is good for 21st on the all-time assists list. Not Tyler Ulis numbers, but still impressive. Rondo would declare for the NBA draft after his Sophomore season and go on to help the Boston Celtics win an NBA Championship in 2008.

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