As NBA Draft approaches, Reed Sheppard 'very thankful' for 'dream come true' at Kentucky

Reed Sheppard grew up dreaming of putting on a Kentucky jersey and playing inside Rupp Arena. He was not only able to do that, but now a second dream will come true on Wednesday.

Sheppard was going to have the opportunity to play in the NBA, but it's how he got there that wasn't always part of the process.

Just 24 hours away from the next step in his journey, Sheppard is prepared to become the first Kentucky top-5 pick in the NBA Draft since 2017.

“It’s been unbelievable," Sheppard told Paul Finebaum on Monday. "It’s a dream of every little kid to be in the position that I am in and being at the NBA Draft. It’s going to be a lot of fun --being able to be here with my family is something that we’ll be able to enjoy together. I’m super excited for this opportunity.”

But before his NBA career gets underway, it's another time of reflection for Sheppard who followed in his parent's footsteps as both his mom and dad were extremely successful during their playing days in Lexington.

Lexington and Kentucky basketball were two of the first memories Sheppard had growing up.

"I always remember going to games and going to the SEC Tournament with Mom and Dad," Sheppard said. "Them taking me to games and being around all the players and the coaches. Going to practices and watching all the games. So, growing up, I was definitely all around it (Kentucky)."

So, when it was time to take his next step and pick a college -- it was a no brainer.

But, it wasn't the direct path or experience he thought he may have at Kentucky. Sheppard started just five games and Kentucky saw a first-round exit in the NCAA Tournament -- a game in which he had just three points.

But on the eve of the biggest day of his life -- up to this point -- Sheppard is thankful for everything Kentucky gave and has given him.

“It was it was a fun time. I couldn’t ask for a better year and a better group of teammates and group of coaches,” Sheppard added. “It was an unbelievable year and I’m super thankful that I was able to be a part of that.

"It was a dream come true being able to play there.”

Sheppard is widely projected to be a top-3 pick on Wednesday and continue the tradition of the handful of super successful NBA players from Lexington.