Revealing UK men’s basketball’s All-Quarter Century Team, honoring the best Wildcats players from 2000 onward.

Unveiling the University of Kentucky men’s basketball All-Quarter Century Team, celebrating the top Wildcats players who have competed since the year 2000. This distinguished lineup highlights the most outstanding athletes of the past 25 years, showcasing their exceptional skills, contributions, and impact on the program. These players have set the standard for excellence in UK basketball, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire fans and future Wildcats alike.

These athletes not only brought immense talent to the court but also demonstrated leadership, resilience, and a commitment to the team’s success. From thrilling buzzer-beaters to dominant performances in crucial games, their careers are filled with memorable moments that have shaped UK basketball’s recent history. Many have gone on to achieve professional success, both in the NBA and overseas, further elevating the program’s reputation on a global scale. This All-Quarter Century Team serves as a testament to the enduring strength and prestige of Kentucky basketball, reflecting a quarter-century of dedication, hard work, and passion. Fans and analysts alike continue to debate and celebrate the inclusion of these elite players, each contributing uniquely to the Wildcats’ storied tradition since 2000.

In selecting this All-Quarter Century Team, careful consideration was given to individual statistics, team achievements, and the overall impact each player had during their time at Kentucky. The list includes prolific scorers, defensive stalwarts, and versatile playmakers who helped the Wildcats secure numerous conference titles, deep NCAA tournament runs, and ultimately, national championships. Beyond their on-court accomplishments, these players also embodied the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance, setting an example for future generations. The celebration of these top Wildcats not only honors their personal achievements but also highlights the sustained excellence of the UK basketball program as a whole, which continues to be a powerhouse in college basketball well into the 21st century.

Moreover, this team reflects the evolution of basketball styles and strategies over the past two and a half decades. From traditional post play and mid-range shooting to the modern emphasis on three-point shooting and versatile positionless basketball, these players adapted and excelled in changing competitive landscapes. Coaches, teammates, and fans remember their memorable performances—clutch shots, defensive stops, and leadership during pivotal moments. Many of these Wildcats also contributed significantly off the court, engaging in community service and serving as role models. As the program looks forward, the legacy of the All-Quarter Century Team serves as both a benchmark and inspiration, encouraging new recruits and current players to reach similar heights and continue the proud tradition of Kentucky basketball excellence.

The recognition of the All-Quarter Century Team also sparks conversations about the future of UK basketball, as emerging talent aims to join the ranks of these legends. Each player’s journey—from recruitment, development, to their collegiate careers—demonstrates the strength of Kentucky’s program in nurturing elite athletes. Their success stories often motivate younger players to commit to hard work, discipline, and teamwork. Additionally, the fans’ passion and unwavering support have played a crucial role in creating an electrifying atmosphere at Rupp Arena, where many of these unforgettable performances took place. Celebrating this team not only honors past achievements but also reinforces the culture of excellence that defines Kentucky basketball, ensuring that the Wildcats remain a dominant force in college hoops for years to come.

Since the turn of the century, a whopping 56 Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball players have been chosen in the NBA draft. In all of UK’s storied hoops history, there has never been a higher level of talent than there has been in the first quarter of the 21st century.

Given that reality, only a nincompoop would try to select an All-Quarter Century Team (2000 through 2025) for UK men’s hoops.

Well, you’ve got one reporting for duty.

Below you will see my opinion on the players who have had the biggest impact on Kentucky men’s basketball during the first quarter of the current century.

The criteria I used in evaluating players is as follows:

1.) How great was a player’s influence on the UK program, a formulation that admittedly favors multi-year players over Kentucky’s multitude of 21st century one-and-dones;

2.) How much UK team success did players contribute to?

3.) While at Kentucky, did players achieve things that were unique and/or special?

If I had been purely selecting the most talented players to play for UK in the 2000s to date or the players who played at Kentucky who went on to have the greatest NBA success, my list would have looked very different.

My All-Quarter Century Team for Kentucky basketball’s opening quarter of the 2000s consists of a first and second team, chosen with positional integrity, and also includes sixth men selected from among players who played an off-the-bench role while at UK.

First Team
Small forward: Tayshaun Prince (1998-2002) — The willowy 6-foot-9, 213-pound product of Compton, California, scored the second most career points (1,775) of any UK player in the 21st century, which is good for eighth all-time in Kentucky basketball history.

The 2001 SEC Player of the Year (both coaches and AP), Prince was an AP Second Team All-American in 2000-01 and a Third Team AP All-American in 2001-02.