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Reed Sheppard is moving on from UK, but says 'Kentucky will always be home'

WUKY | By Josh James
Published April 18, 2024 at 6:07 PM EDT
Kentucky guard Reed Sheppard dribbles the ball during the second half of the team's NCAA college basketball game against Mississippi State, Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024, in Starkville, Miss. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
Rogelio V. Solis/AP
/
AP
Kentucky guard Reed Sheppard dribbles the ball during the second half of the team's NCAA college basketball game against Mississippi State, Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024, in Starkville, Miss. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)

Celebrated UK freshmen Reed Sheppard will be entering the NBA draft and not returning to play for the Wildcats next season.

"Kentucky will always be home. However, there is another part of my dream — to play basketball in the NBA," Sheppard says in a brief video showing highlights of his career from childhood up to the present day. "I believe it is time to pursue that dream."

Sheppard was named the consensus National Freshman of the Year last season and played in all 33 games, averaging 12.5 points per game.

New UK coach Mark Pope had hoped Shepperd would stay on, but said he wanted the player to find where his heart was pulling him.

Watch the full video below.

Local/Regional News
Josh James
Josh James fell in love with college radio at Western Kentucky University's student station, New Rock 92 (now Revolution 91.7). After working as a DJ and program director, he knew he wanted to come home to Lexington and try his hand in public radio.
See stories by Josh James