In the long, decorated history of Kentucky basketball, some jersey numbers are legendary, worn by All-Americans, champions, and household names. Others, like No. 17, have a far more limited—but no less fascinating—history.
The number 17 has rarely graced the Kentucky uniform, largely due to NCAA rules that at one time prohibited officials from signaling digits like "1" and "7" on each hand for foul calls. But before that rule took effect — and long before jersey numbers expanded into the modern era — a handful of Wildcats carried the number onto the court.
Here’s the full list of Wildcats who’ve worn No. 17:
- Carey Spicer (1928-31)
- Harry Bliss (1934-36)
- Ernie Jefferson (1938-39)
- Carl Combs (1938-41)
- Frank Etscorn (1940-42)
- Al Reynolds (1944-45)
The greatest no. 17 in Kentucky basketball history is Carey Spicer
There’s really no debate. Carey Spicer is the standard-bearer for No. 17.
Spicer was one of the earliest stars in program history, playing under the legendary Adolph Rupp during his formative years as Kentucky’s head coach.
Spicer by the Numbers:
- Seasons: 1928-1931
- Games Played: 52
- Total Points: 386
- Helms All-American: 1928-29, 1930-31
- All-Southern Conference: 3× selection (1928-29, 1929-30, 1930-31)
In an era long before shot clocks and three-point lines, Spicer’s scoring totals were impressive, but it was his leadership and consistency that truly set him apart. As the one of the leaders in Rupp's early teams, Spicer helped lay the foundation for the powerhouse Kentucky would eventually become.
He was named a Helms Foundation All-American twice, a highly respected honor in the pre-NCAA Tournament era, and was one of Rupp’s first true stars — helping put Kentucky basketball on the national map during the program's earliest stages of greatness.
The modern era & the return of no. 17?
Because of the NCAA's long-standing officiating rules, No. 17 went into hibernation for decades. Officials couldn’t physically signal a "1" and "7" simultaneously with one hand for foul calls, so the number was effectively retired across the sport.
However, those rules have since been relaxed. With modern scorekeeping and digital officiating systems, there's no mechanical reason No. 17 can’t make a comeback in Lexington. It remains one of the few numbers that hasn’t returned — but don’t be surprised if someday a new Wildcat chooses to revive the number once worn by Carey Spicer.
When it comes to No. 17 in Kentucky basketball history, Carey Spicer stands alone.
He wasn't just the greatest to wear the number — he helped write the first chapters of Kentucky’s basketball story.
Stay tuned as we jump into number 18 tomorrow.