We continue our deep dive into Kentucky basketball history by looking at No. 19 — a number that belongs almost entirely to the early eras of the program. While modern fans may not be as familiar with many of these names, several of them left lasting impressions during their time in Lexington. As always, only Kentucky accomplishments are considered — what they did in the blue and white is all that matters. No pro stats, and no stats from other schools.
- Forest Sale
- Waller White (no not that one)
- Jim Weber
- Jack Tingle
- Jack Parkinson
- Walter Hirsch
- George Cooke
- Willie Rouse
A small but decorated list, especially among the early pioneers of the Adolph Rupp era. Let’s count down the top three:
No. 3 — Jack Parkinson (1943-48)
Parkinson was a steady contributor throughout his Kentucky career and played a crucial role on multiple strong teams during the mid-1940s. Over 106 games, Parkinson tallied 851 career points and earned All-SEC honors three straight seasons. His junior year in 1945-46 was his finest, where he was named a Consensus Second-Team All-American while averaging over 11 points per game in an era where that was a significant total. Parkinson was a key piece on teams that set the foundation for Kentucky's post-war dominance.
No. 2 — Jack Tingle (1943-47)
One of the most consistent forwards of the 1940s, Tingle appeared in 114 games and racked up 948 career points. He was a four-time All-SEC Tournament selection and earned First-Team All-SEC honors in each of his final three seasons. Tingle’s national recognition grew as his career progressed, earning All-American honors in both 1946 and 1947. His versatility and scoring touch made him a reliable weapon in Rupp’s offense, and his durability was one of his defining traits during a physically demanding era of college basketball.
No. 1 — Forest Sale (1930-33)
Sale’s dominance predates many of Kentucky’s national titles, but his legacy remains significant. In 50 games, Sale scored 627 points — an impressive number for the early 1930s. He was a two-time Consensus First-Team All-American and in 1933 was named National Player of the Year by the Helms Foundation. Sale’s leadership helped Kentucky emerge as a national power even before the NCAA Tournament existed. His ability to dominate during the formative years of the program cements his place as the best to ever wear No. 19 for the Wildcats.
Up next: no. 20
The series keeps rolling tomorrow as we move to No. 20 — a number that includes some standout names from multiple generations of Kentucky basketball history.