As we continue our deep dive into Kentucky basketball’s all-time greats by jersey number, today we shine the spotlight on those who wore No. 20 for the Wildcats. This group features a wide range of eras—from the early 1940s to the modern day—bringing together role players, sharp-shooters, and a few who etched their names in Kentucky’s rich basketball lore.
While many wore No. 20, only a few left lasting impacts worthy of a top-three ranking. As always, only their accomplishments at Kentucky are considered—no pro stats, no transfers’ outside records, just what they did in the blue and white.
The Full List of Kentucky Wildcats to Wear No. 20:
Tom Moseley
- Deward Compton
- Kenton Campbell
- Lindle Castle
- Gayle Rose (jersey retired)
- Dick Howe
- Ray Freudenberger
- Jimmy Dan Conner
- Dwane Casey
- Jim Master
- Steve Bruce
- Sean Sutton
- Tony Cooper
- Kerry Benson
- Doron Lamb
- Zan Payne
- Joey Hart
- Zach Tow
No. 3 — Jim Master
- Career (1980–84)
- Games: 121
- Points: 1,283
- FG%: 48.6%
- FT%: 84.9%
- Assists: 254
Master was one of the best pure shooters in Kentucky history, a reliable scorer and perimeter threat on some strong teams under Joe B. Hall. His free-throw shooting remains among the program’s best, and he was a steady backcourt presence for four seasons. While he never earned major national awards, his consistency earns him a spot on this list.
No. 2 — Jimmy Dan Conner
- Career (1972–75)
- Games: 85
- Points: 1,009
- FG%: 50%
- All-SEC Third Team (twice), NCAA Regional Team (1975)
- Academic All-American & Academic All-SEC
Jimmy Dan Conner was a Kentucky boy through and through, combining athletic skill, academics, and postseason heroics. He was a critical piece of Joe B. Hall’s early tournament teams and helped lead Kentucky to the 1975 NCAA title game. His blend of production and postseason recognition edges him into the second spot.
No. 1 — Doron Lamb
- Career (2010–12)
- Games: 78
- Points: 1,018
- FG%: 48.5%
- 3PT%: 47.5%
- FT%: 81.1%
- 2011 NCAA Final Four Team
- 2012 NCAA National Champion
- 2012 NCAA Final Four All-Tournament Team
- All-SEC Second Team (Coaches)
There’s little debate here. Doron Lamb was a vital piece of John Calipari’s 2012 national championship squad, providing elite shooting from long range and a reliable scoring punch. His efficiency from beyond the arc remains one of the highest in school history. Lamb’s knack for big shots on the biggest stage (including 22 points in the 2012 title game vs. Kansas) cements his place atop the No. 20 list.
Honorable mention
Gayle Rose
His jersey is retired, reflecting his importance to Kentucky basketball history during the 1950s. While his raw numbers don’t match the top three, his leadership and contributions to the program’s tradition are still deeply respected as his jersey is retired.
No. 20 might not be as star-studded as some other Kentucky numbers, but it’s represented by one of the best shooters in school history, a national champion, and a retired jersey honoree. As we march forward, this number quietly holds its place in the rich tapestry of Kentucky basketball history.
Check back in with us tomorrow as we rank the best 21's in history, a certain Compton sharpshooter may find his way on the list. Or look back at our last entry here.