We continue our summer countdown series, spotlighting the players who have worn each jersey number in Kentucky basketball history. Today, we arrive at No. 18 — a number that’s seen limited but interesting usage, worn by just seven Wildcats across several decades. As jersey number flexibility grows again under NCAA rule changes, perhaps we'll see No. 18 on the floor more frequently in the years ahead. But for now, we honor those who wore it and identify the greatest among them.
The best to wear no. 18: Dale Barnstable
When looking at the history of No. 18 at Kentucky, one name rises above the rest: Dale Barnstable.
Barnstable suited up for four seasons under Adolph Rupp from 1946-50 and was a key contributor during one of the most successful stretches in Kentucky basketball history. Over his career, Barnstable played in 129 games and scored 635 points while maintaining a consistent role on the roster year after year. His best statistical season came in 1948-49, when he earned Third-Team All-SEC honors from the Associated Press while helping Kentucky continue its dominance nationally.
Though he was never the leading star on his teams, Barnstable was a dependable presence alongside some of the biggest names in program history during the Wildcats' first golden era. His ability to contribute steadily over four years, combined with his All-SEC recognition, makes him the clear choice as the top No. 18.
Dale Barnstable Career at Kentucky:
- 129 games, 635 points
- 1948-49 All-SEC Third Team (AP)
The others who wore no. 18
While Barnstable claims the top spot, several other Wildcats deserve recognition for their time in the No. 18 jersey:
Ermal Allen (1939-42): Allen had a solid three-year career, playing 65 games and scoring 272 points. His standout season came in 1941-42 when he was named First-Team All-SEC and earned All-SEC Tournament honors. Allen later became better known for his long coaching career in football, including serving as an assistant under Bear Bryant.
Paul Noel (1942-43): Played just one season but contributed 84 points in 20 games before his career was interrupted by World War II.
Jim Howe (1944-45): Played five games and scored 18 points during a wartime season when rosters were in constant flux.
Dwight Price (1950-51): A role player who appeared in 20 games, scoring 34 points and grabbing 43 rebounds.
Bill Trott (1928-31): One of the earliest Wildcats to wear the number, Trott played 16 games across three seasons, scoring 7 total points.
Houston Nutt (1951-52): Yes, the father of the future Arkansas and Ole Miss football coach. Nutt appeared in one game for Kentucky before transferring to Oklahoma State. His son, of course, made his own name as a successful head coach in college football.
Up next: No. 19
As our summer series continues, we move on to No. 19 — another rarely used number with its own unique slice of Kentucky basketball history.