All 18 Wildcats are in action as Kentucky Men’s Basketball takes over Oklahoma City.
The BBNBA Playoffs are here, and with them, a thrilling display of Kentucky Men’s Basketball talent on the NBA stage. The Kentucky Wildcats, known for their storied legacy in college basketball, are once again showing their dominance in the professional ranks, with 18 former Wildcats making their mark in the NBA Playoffs this year. From veterans to fresh faces, the Kentucky alumni are ready to shine in what promises to be an exciting postseason.
The Legacy of Kentucky Basketball in the NBA
Kentucky Men’s Basketball has long been a powerhouse in college hoops, and that success has translated into the professional ranks. With an extensive list of players making it to the NBA, the Wildcats have become a beacon of success for college basketball players aiming for the pros. Under the leadership of head coach John Calipari, Kentucky has produced an incredible number of NBA-caliber athletes, and the BBNBA Playoffs serve as a showcase for that talent.
From the dominant big men like Anthony Davis to the versatile wings such as Devin Booker, Kentucky’s alumni have made their presence known in the NBA. The program’s focus on developing well-rounded players, both offensively and defensively, has allowed its athletes to excel at the highest level. This deep pipeline of talent continues to thrive in the NBA, making Kentucky one of the most successful basketball programs in terms of professional success.
Kentucky’s 18 NBA Playoff Participants
This season, a total of 18 former Kentucky Wildcats are participating in the NBA Playoffs. These players span a variety of teams, roles, and playing styles, but they all share one common thread: their time at Kentucky helped shape them into the players they are today. From starters to key bench contributors, these Wildcats are ready to leave their mark in the postseason.
1. Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers)
A two-time NBA champion, Anthony Davis is one of the most dominant players in the league today. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill on both ends of the floor makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams. Davis has been instrumental in the Lakers’ postseason success, and his presence in the 2025 playoffs is sure to be a key factor. His leadership and defensive prowess will be crucial as the Lakers aim for another championship run.
2. Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns)
Devin Booker has become one of the best scoring guards in the NBA, and his ability to take over games has made him one of the most feared players in the league. Booker’s scoring ability, combined with his basketball IQ, makes him a valuable asset for the Phoenix Suns as they look to make a deep playoff run. His postseason experience and ability to perform in clutch situations will be critical for the Suns’ success.
3. Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers)
Haliburton has been a revelation for the Pacers since joining the NBA, with his combination of playmaking and scoring making him one of the brightest young stars in the league. His high basketball IQ and leadership abilities will be invaluable to the Pacers as they look to challenge the top teams in the Eastern Conference. Haliburton’s unique skill set makes him one of the most exciting players to watch in the playoffs.
4. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
A dynamic scorer and elite playmaker, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the cornerstone of the Oklahoma City Thunder. His ability to create shots for himself and his teammates makes him a dangerous weapon on the floor. Gilgeous-Alexander’s development into a superstar has been a major storyline for the Thunder this season, and his performance in the playoffs will be essential for Oklahoma City as they look to make a deep run.
5. Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets)
Jamal Murray’s rise as one of the most clutch players in the NBA has been impressive. His ability to step up in big moments, especially in the postseason, has made him a fan favorite. As the Nuggets continue their quest for an NBA title, Murray’s scoring and playmaking will be crucial to their success. With his backcourt partner Nikola Jokić, Murray forms one of the most dynamic duos in the league.
6. Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat)
Bam Adebayo is one of the premier big men in the NBA, known for his defensive versatility and ability to impact the game in a variety of ways. His all-around game makes him an invaluable asset for the Miami Heat, and his contributions on both ends of the floor will be essential as the Heat try to make a deep playoff run. Adebayo’s toughness and leadership make him one of the most reliable players in high-pressure situations.
7. PJ Washington (Charlotte Hornets)
A versatile forward who can space the floor and contribute both offensively and defensively, PJ Washington has been a key player for the Charlotte Hornets. His ability to play multiple positions and guard various types of players makes him a valuable asset in the playoffs. Washington’s development into a reliable two-way player will be important for the Hornets as they look to compete against top-tier teams in the postseason.
8. Tyler Herro (Miami Heat)
Tyler Herro has established himself as one of the premier shooters in the NBA, and his ability to score in bunches makes him a major weapon for the Miami Heat. Herro’s offensive skills will be critical for the Heat in the playoffs, where scoring can be at a premium. His ability to knock down three-pointers and create his own shot will be key for Miami as they aim for another deep postseason run.
9. Keldon Johnson (San Antonio Spurs)
Keldon Johnson has been a standout for the San Antonio Spurs with his strong work ethic and ability to score efficiently. Johnson’s growth as a leader for the Spurs has been impressive, and his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will be vital for San Antonio as they navigate the challenges of the playoffs.
10. Willie Cauley-Stein (Dallas Mavericks)
Willie Cauley-Stein has been a key role player for the Dallas Mavericks, bringing defensive intensity and rebounding to the team. His presence in the paint and ability to protect the rim will be important for the Mavericks as they try to make a playoff run. Cauley-Stein’s energy and hustle will be essential for the Mavericks, especially in high-stakes games.
11. Immanuel Quickley (New York Knicks)
Immanuel Quickley has emerged as one of the most exciting young players for the New York Knicks, providing a scoring spark off the bench. His ability to shoot the ball and create offense for himself and others makes him an important player for the Knicks. Quickley’s development as a reliable contributor will be crucial for New York’s playoff aspirations.
12. Aaron Harrison (Detroit Pistons)
Aaron Harrison has made a name for himself with his defensive tenacity and leadership on the floor. As a member of the Detroit Pistons, Harrison’s contributions on both ends of the floor have been a bright spot for a young team. His playoff experience will help guide the Pistons as they aim to make a push for the postseason.
13. DeAndre Liggins (Brooklyn Nets)
DeAndre Liggins’ defensive skills have earned him a spot in the NBA Playoffs, and his ability to guard multiple positions makes him a valuable asset for the Brooklyn Nets. Liggins’ defensive contributions will be crucial for the Nets as they face off against some of the league’s top scoring teams.
14. Julius Randle (New York Knicks)
Julius Randle is one of the most talented and versatile forwards in the NBA, known for his ability to score, rebound, and facilitate. His all-around game will be critical for the New York Knicks as they look to make a run in the playoffs. Randle’s leadership and scoring will be key to the Knicks’ success.
15. Sasha Killeya-Jones (Phoenix Suns)
Sasha Killeya-Jones, a young and promising player, has earned a spot in the playoffs as part of the Phoenix Suns. Known for his size and defensive potential, Killeya-Jones is a valuable asset off the bench for the Suns. His contributions could play a significant role in Phoenix’s postseason journey.
16. Rajon Rondo (Los Angeles Lakers)
A veteran with multiple NBA championships, Rajon Rondo’s experience in clutch moments is invaluable for the Los Angeles Lakers. Rondo’s playmaking and leadership abilities will be critical as the Lakers navigate the high-pressure environment of the playoffs. His ability to run an offense and make the right plays at the right time is a skill that could make all the difference for the Lakers.
17. Cameron Mills (Indiana Pacers)
Cameron Mills has brought a veteran presence to the Indiana Pacers, providing leadership and experience for a young team. His defensive abilities and basketball IQ make him a key player off the bench, and his contributions in big moments will be crucial for the Pacers’ playoff run.
18. Josh Harrellson (Miami Heat)
Josh Harrellson’s role with the Miami Heat will likely be that of a reliable bench player, bringing energy and defensive toughness to the team. His rebounding and post presence will be valuable in the Heat’s pursuit of a championship. Harrellson’s experience in high-pressure situations could prove to be a critical asset in the postseason.
