In the heart of basketball country, where the love of the game is as rich as the horse racing magnets who regularly visit Keeneland, the University of Kentucky has housed some real legends. Here’s a look at some of the best in-state talent that not only grew up with dreams of wearing blue but lived them out on the hallowed hardwood of Rupp Arena.
1. Rex Chapman - Apollo High School, Owensboro
Real ones know Rex Chapman was a walking BUCKET throughout his whole career! 💯 pic.twitter.com/srA8bqqz0n
— editsxnba (@editsxnba) December 13, 2024
High School: Known for his scoring prowess, Chapman averaged nearly 30 points per game as a senior.
UK Career: From 1986 to 1988, Chapman left his mark, averaging 17.8 points per game. His shooting was legendary, with a 45.4% field goal percentage. His flair for dramatic plays, like his game-winning dunk against Louisville, made him a fan favorite.
2. Rajon Rondo - Eastern High School, Louisville
Rajon Rondo was so dang smooth 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/W7IK2in3kP
— Fastbreak Hoops (@FastbreakHoops5) December 30, 2024
High School: Rondo was a star, named a finalist Kentucky's Mr. Basketball in 2004 that he did not win, known for his vision and passing.
UK career: Playing from 2004 to 2006, Rondo's contributions went beyond stats with 9.2 points, 4.9 assists, and 2.1 steals per game. His defensive prowess and playmaking were key in leading the Wildcats to an Elite Eight in 2005. He also went on to have a tremendous NBA career.
3. Jack Givens - Bryan Station High School, Lexington
'Froback Friday! Former Kentucky great Jack "Goose" Givens. pic.twitter.com/kNkeIlyNQf
— Jay Bilas (@JayBilas) January 19, 2018
High School: Givens was named Mr. Basketball in Kentucky in 1974.
UK Career: Playing from 1974 to 1978, Givens became a household name, especially after his 41-point performance in the 1978 NCAA Championship game against Duke, earning him the Most Outstanding Player award.
4. Richie Farmer- Clay County High School
.@BillyRsports Richie Farmer had 51 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 block, and 1 steal in the 1988 state championship game against Ballard. Ask Richie who he blocked in that state title game. pic.twitter.com/IcQnPMTWkC
— Corey Price (@coreyp08) December 6, 2024
High School: Farmer is a local legend, taking tiny Clay County in Manchester, KY to 3 state finals, winning one.
UK Career: From 1988-1992 Farmer struggled his first year under Eddie Sutton, but played a key role in the 92 team that took Duke down to the wire.
5. Travis Ford- Madisonville North Hopkins High School
Happy birthday to 'The Little General' and Madisonville's own Travis Ford!
— catsclassics (@catsclassics) December 29, 2024
The 2-time SEC Tournament MVP, 2-time All-SEC selection and Most Outstanding Player of the 1993 Southeast Regional still ranks fourth all-time in FT% and 3P% and sixth in made 3s.
During the 1992-93… pic.twitter.com/RUlUgCA4S7
High School: He was only the second player in school history to have his jersey retired as he holds school career reccords in assists and points among others.
UK Career: Playing from 1991 to 1994, Ford was instrumental in getting the Jamal Mashburn led Cats to the Final Four in 93. He is still 6th all time in three point makes, and was named Southeast Region Most Outstanding Player in the 1993 NCAA Tournament
These are the top 6 players who played in Kentucky in high school and then went on to play for the University of Kentucky in college. Miss anyone?