Kentucky basketball has long been known as a professional pipeline. Under John Calipari, UK turned into an NBA factory, and Mark Pope is keeping that tradition alive. As of the 2025-26 season, a nation-leading 29 former Wildcats are on NBA rosters.
Veterans like Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat), Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns), and Anthony Davis (now with the Dallas Mavericks) continue to anchor franchises, while newer faces like Rob Dillingham (Minnesota Timberwolves), Reed Sheppard (Houston Rockets), and Justin Edwards (Philadelphia 76ers) are carving out roles of their own.
Sheppard, a lottery pick in 2024, should be playing starter minutes in Houston’s revamped backcourt.