Courtesy of Eurobasket LLC We bring you last week's top former Wildcats players who are currently playing in pro basketball.
Look at great performance of Trey Lyles (24 points), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (30 points), and Brandon Knight (32 points).
#1. Canadian Trey Lyles, a 6'9'' forward/center who graduated from Kentucky in 2015, has been making his mark playing professionally in Spain after helping his college team win the NBA Pro Summer League in Utah Champion title that year. In a recent game, Lyles, now 30 years old, showcased his skills for Real Madrid but couldn't prevent his team from a 85-92 home loss to the top-ranked Olympiacos. Despite the defeat, Lyles stood out as the top scorer, contributing 24 points and 8 rebounds in just 31 minutes on the court. Against Olympiacos, Lyles displayed an impressive performance, scoring 24 points, securing 8 rebounds, and providing 1 assist. Although he put up strong numbers, his team fell short of clinching the victory. Throughout the season, Lyles has maintained solid statistics, averaging 13.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game in the 42 games he has played so far.
#2. Canadian point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a 6'6'' NBA player and Wildcats alumnus from 2018, showcased his basketball prowess in a recent game where he led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a notable 122-113 victory over the San Antonio Spurs. In this game, he displayed an exceptional performance, scoring an impressive 30 points, securing 4 rebounds, and distributing 9 assists while also blocking 2 shots and maintaining a flawless free throw record of 6-for-6 in 39 minutes of play. This outstanding showing earned him the title of MVP of the game and reinforced his reputation as a champion. Despite the Thunder's modest 64-18 record this season, Gilgeous-Alexander has been a standout player, averaging 30.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, 6.8 assists, and 1.4 steals per game in the 80 games played so far. With his remarkable skills and consistent performance, Gilgeous-Alexander continues to prove himself as a finalist in the league.
#3. Experienced champion Brandon Knight, a 6'3'' guard at 34 years old, who graduated from Kentucky in 2011 after helping them win the SEC Tournament that year, currently plays professionally in Puerto Rico. In a recent game, he led Mets de Guaynabo to a victory over the third-ranked Santeros with a score of 98-86 in the Puerto Rican Baloncesto Superior Nacional. Knight's exceptional performance earned him the title of MVP of the game as he achieved a double-double by scoring 32 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and adding 8 assists in just 35 minutes of play. Notably, he made all twelve of his free throws during the game. Mets de Guaynabo, currently placed fourth in Group B with a 10-10 record, has benefitted greatly from Knight's skills on the court. In a standout game against Aguada, Knight's impressive 32 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists were instrumental in securing another victory for his team. His consistent high-level performance throughout the season has truly showcased him as a champion. Individually, Knight has been having a remarkable year with impressive statistics. He averages 17.5 points per game, 4.2 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.3 steals in the 11 games he has played so far. His outstanding contributions and leadership make him a standout finalist in the league.
#4. South Sudanese Wenyen Gabriel, a 29-year-old center standing at 6'10'' and an alumnus of the Wildcats class of 2018, has been making a significant impact playing professionally in Germany. Recently, he played a crucial role in his team's dominating 92-65 victory over the seventh-ranked Gladiators in the German easyCredit BBL. In this game, Gabriel showcased his skills by scoring 14 points, grabbing 4 rebounds, and delivering 2 blocks in just 23 minutes of play. Currently, FC Bayern Muenchen Basketball holds the top spot in the league with a record of 29-5, with Gabriel contributing to their success in his first season with the team. Notably, the team has secured their ninth consecutive victory, showcasing their strong form led by Gabriel's contributions on the court. In a recent game against Trier, Gabriel once again displayed his prowess by scoring 14 points and grabbing 4 rebounds, aiding his team in securing the victory and ultimately being crowned the champion. Throughout this season, Gabriel has maintained an average of 8.6 points per game and 4.5 rebounds per game in the 30 games he has played, solidifying his position as a key player for his team.
#5. Dominican Republic native Karl-Anthony Towns, a 7'0'' center/forward who graduated from Kentucky in 2015 and received the All-SEC Freshman of the Year award, is currently excelling in the NBA. In a recent game, he played a crucial role in his team's decisive 109-93 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, contributing significantly with 18 points and 13 rebounds in 36 minutes of play, securing a double-double. This win marked his team's fifth consecutive triumph. Towns showcased an outstanding performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers, impressively scoring 18 points, grabbing 13 rebounds, and providing 1 assist. His exceptional display on the court was pivotal in ensuring his team's success, earning him the esteemed Triple-Double Badge from eurobasket.com and further establishing his reputation as a champion. Throughout the season, Towns has maintained impressive individual statistics, averaging 19.5 points per game, 11.6 rebounds per game (the second highest in the league), and 3.4 assists per game across 89 games. Additionally, it is noteworthy that Towns holds dual American and Dominican Republic citizenship, allowing him to compete as a domestic player for the Dominican Republic national team.
#6. Davion Mintz, a 6'3'' guard and 27-year-old Wildcats alumni from the class of 2022, has been excelling in his professional basketball career in Germany. Recently, he showcased his skills with FIT/One Wuerzburg Baskets, although they fell short in their last game against the Telekom Baskets, losing 76-80 on the road. Despite the defeat, Mintz stood out as the champion of his team, leading the scoring with 17 points and contributing 4 rebounds during his 29 minutes on the court. In another matchup against Bonn, Mintz once again displayed his talent by scoring 17 points, securing 4 rebounds, and providing 2 assists. Despite his remarkable performance, his team was unable to secure the win, resulting in a loss. Throughout the season, Mintz has consistently delivered impressive stats, averaging 16.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.1 steals per game over 34 appearances. His dedication and skills have made him a standout finalist in the league, showcasing his prowess both on and off the court.
#7. De'Aaron Fox, a 6'3'' guard who graduated from Kentucky in 2017 and received the All-SEC All-Tournament MVP award that year, currently plays professionally in the NBA. In a recent game, despite his commendable performance, he was unable to lead the San Antonio Spurs (62-21) to victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder, with the Spurs ultimately losing 108-123. Fox showcased his skills by scoring 15 points, securing 7 rebounds, and providing 6 assists during his 31 minutes on the court. Throughout the season, Fox has maintained impressive statistics, averaging 18.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, 6.2 assists, and 1.2 steals per game in the 86 games played. His consistent performance has solidified his reputation as a standout player in the league, demonstrating his potential to be a champion in the future.
#8. Cason Wallace, a 6'4'' guard and 22-year-old Wildcats alumni from the class of 2023, has made a name for himself in the NBA after receiving the SEC All-Freshman Team award during his college years. Currently playing alongside the talented Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Wallace recently showcased his skills in the last NBA game. During this game, Wallace played a pivotal role in the Oklahoma City Thunder's victory over the San Antonio Spurs with a score of 122-113. In that game, Wallace displayed his versatility on the court by scoring 12 points, grabbing 4 rebounds, providing 4 assists, and making 4 steals in just 25 minutes of play. His impressive performance against San Antonio was instrumental in securing the win for his team, highlighting his capabilities as a genuine finalist. Throughout the season, Wallace has maintained solid statistics, averaging 8.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and an impressive 2.0 steals per game, making him one of the top players in the league in steals. Wallace's consistent contributions have been crucial to his team's success, further solidifying his reputation as a true champion.
#9. Archie Goodwin, a 6'5'' guard who graduated from Kentucky in 2013 and earned the SEC All-Freshman Team award, currently plays professionally in Taiwan. In a recent game, he played a pivotal role in the Taipei Fubon Braves' victory over the Ghosthawks, one of the league's weaker teams, with a resounding scoreline of 119-92 in the Taiwanese P. League+ (second division). Goodwin's exceptional performance earned him the MVP title of the game, as he astonishingly recorded 45 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists in 40 minutes of play. Scoring an impressive 45 points, securing 5 rebounds, and providing 6 assists against the Ghosthawks, Goodwin led his team to a convincing win. This outstanding display of skill garnered him an Elite Badge from eurobasket.com, further cementing his reputation as a champion on the court. Throughout the season, Goodwin has maintained high statistics, averaging 26.1 points per game (leading the league), along with 5.0 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.6 steals per game (ranking third in the league) over 25 games.
#10. Keldon Johnson, a 6'5'' forward/guard who is 26 years old and an alum of the Wildcats from 2019, currently shines as a professional player in the NBA. Notably, he was awarded the All-SEC Freshman of the Year in his college days. Johnson shares the court with De'Aaron Fox, his teammate. In a recent NBA game, he faced off against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from the opposing team. Despite his commendable efforts, Johnson was unable to lead the San Antonio Spurs (62-21) to victory in their latest match against the Oklahoma City Thunder, which ended with a score of 113-122 in favor of the Thunder. Johnson displayed a solid performance, scoring 10 points and securing 5 rebounds in 27 minutes of play. Throughout the season, Johnson has showcased remarkable individual performance, boasting an average of 12.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game across 98 games. His contributions on the court have been instrumental, even though his team fell short in the most recent game.
Other former University of Kentucky players, who play in pro basketball:
Brandon Boston Jr. (6'6''-G/F-2001, played in 2020-21) plays for Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul in Turkish BSL
Nathan Sestina (6'9''-PF-1997, played in 2019-20) plays for AX Armani Exchange Milano in Italian Serie A
Tre Mitchell (6'9''-F/C-2000, played in 2023-24) plays for JL Bourg en Bresse in French Betclic ELITE ProA
Derek Willis (6'9''-PF-1995, played in 2013-17) plays for Paris Basketball in French Betclic ELITE ProA
Alexander Poythress (6'9''-C/F-1993, played in 2012-16) plays for Zenit in Russian VTB United League
Julius Randle (6'9''-F/C-1994, played in 2013-14) plays for Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA
Nick Richards (7'0''-C-1997, played in 2017-20) plays for Chicago Bulls in the NBA
Devin Booker (6'6''-SG-1996, played in 2014-15) plays for Phoenix Suns in the NBA
Reed Sheppard (6'3''-G-2004, played in 2023-24) plays for Houston Rockets in the NBA
P.J. Washington (6'9''-PF-1998, played in 2017-19) plays for Dallas Mavericks in the NBA
Immanuel Quickley (6'3''-PG-1999, played in 2018-20) plays for Toronto Raptors in the NBA
TyTy Washington (6'4''-PG-2001, played in 2021-22) plays for Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA
Kevin Knox II (6'7''-SF-1999, played in 2017-18) plays for Chicago Bulls in the NBA
Amari Williams (7'0''-F-2002, played in 2024-25) plays for Boston Celtics in the NBA
Isaiah Jackson (6'10''-PF-2002, played in 2020-21) plays for Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA
Antonio Reeves (6'5''-G-2000, played in 2022-24) plays for Charlotte Hornets in the NBA
Oscar Tshiebwe (6'8''-F-1999, played in 2021-23) plays for Utah Jazz in the NBA
Tyler Herro (6'5''-SG-2000, played in 2018-19) plays for Miami Heat in the NBA
Bam Adebayo (6'10''-C-1997, played in 2016-17) plays for Miami Heat in the NBA
Koby Brea (6'7''-G-2002, played in 2024-25) plays for Phoenix Suns in the NBA
Jamal Murray (6'4''-SG-1997, played in 2015-16) plays for Denver Nuggets in the NBA
Jacob Toppin (6'9''-F-2000, played in 2020-23) plays for Atlanta Hawks in the NBA
Olivier Sarr (6'11''-C-1999, played in 2020-23) plays for Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA
Jarred Vanderbilt (6'9''-F/C-1999, played in 2017-18) plays for Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA
Skal Labissiere (6'11''-F-1996, played in 2015-16) plays for Washington Wizards in the NBA
Anthony Davis (6'10''-C-1993, played in 2011-12) plays for Washington Wizards in the NBA
Rob Dillingham (6'1''-G-2005, played in 2023-24) plays for Chicago Bulls in the NBA
Malik Monk (6'3''-G-1998, played in 2016-17) plays for Sacramento Kings in the NBA
Justin Edwards (6'8''-G-2003, played in 2023-24) plays for Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA
Tyrese Maxey (6'4''-PG-2000, played in 2019-20) plays for Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA
E.J. Montgomery (6'10''-C/F-1999, played in 2020-21) plays for MKS Dabrowa Gornicza in Polish OBL
Kellan Grady (6'5''-G-1997, played in 2021-22) played for Zastal BC Zielona Gora in Polish OBL few monts ago
Andrew Harrison (6'6''-G-1994, played in 2013-15) plays for SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels in German BBL
Isaiah Briscoe (6'3''-PG-1996, played in 2015-17) plays for Fujian Sturgeons in Chinese CBA
Isaac Humphries (7'1''-C-1998, played in 2014-17) plays for Adelaide 36ers in Australian NBL
Eric Bledsoe (6'1''-PG-1989, played in 2009-10) played for Shanghai Sharks in Chinese CBA last year
Dakari Johnson (7'0''-C/F-1995, played in 2013-15) plays for Zhejiang Golden Bulls in Chinese CBA
Tai Wynyard (6'10''-C/F-1998, played in 2016-18) played for New Zealand Breakers in Australian NBL last year
Aaron Harrison (6'6''-SF-1994, played in 2013-15) plays for Halcones de Ciudad Obregon in Mexican CIBACOPA
Ansley Almonor (6'7''-F-2002, played in 2024-25) plays for Vilpas in Finnish Korisliiga
Hamidou Diallo (6'6''-SF-1998, played in 2017-18) plays for Shanxi Loongs in Chinese CBA
Ashton Hagans (6'3''-PG-1999, played in 2018-20) plays for Shanxi Loongs in Chinese CBA
Lamont Butler Jr. (6'2''-G-2002, played in 2024-25) plays for College Park SkyHawks in the NBA G League
Jaxson Robinson (6'6''-G-2002, played in 2025-25) plays for Cleveland Charge in the NBA G League
James Young (6'6''-G/F-1995, played in 2013-22) played for Ipswich Force in Australian NBL One last year
Mychal Mulder (6'4''-SG-1994, played in 2015-17) plays for Vancouver Bandits in CEBL
Josh Harrellson (6'10''-F-1989, played in 2008-11) plays for Saga Ballooners in Japanese B1 League
Billy Evans (6'1''-G-1932, played in 1951-55) plays for Bartlesville Phillips 66ers in the NIBL
Doron Lamb (6'3''-G-1991, played in 2010-12) played for La Familia - Kentucky in the The Basketball Tournament last year
Andrew Carr (6'11''-F-2002, played in 2024-25) plays for Rip City Remix in the NBA G League
Deandre Liggins (6'6''-F-1988, played in 2008-11) played for La Familia - Kentucky in the The Basketball Tournament last year
DeMarcus Cousins (6'11''-C-1990, played in 2009-10) plays for Selenge Bodons Sukhbaatar in Mongolian MBL
Reid Travis (6'8''-F-1995, played in 2018-19) plays for Kaohsiung Aquas in Taiwanese TPBL
Chris Livingston (6'6''-F-2003, played in 2025-25) plays for Capital City Go-Go in the NBA G League
Willie Cauley-Stein (7'0''-C-1993, played in 2012-15) played for La Familia - Kentucky in the The Basketball Tournament last year
Eloy Vargas (6'11''-C-1988, played in 2010-12) plays for Heroes in Dominican Rep. LNB
Kahlil Whitney (6'6''-G/F-2001, played in 2019-20) plays for Jiangsu in Chinese NBL
Notice: The list above includes only some of alumni playing currently in pro basketball. Check complete list of University of Kentucky basketball alumni.
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Ex-Players
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