LEXINGTON, Ky. — A Pope-Sheppard marriage in basketball heaven isn’t in the cards for the Kentucky Wildcats. Freshman guard, Reed Sheppard, announced on social media he is leaving school for the NBA.
New coach, Mark Pope, who played with Sheppard’s dad, Jeff, had hoped the SEC freshman of the year would return to UK. Sheppard joins Justin Edwards, Ugonna Onyenso and Rob Dillingham in declaring for the 2024 NBA Draft.
In a heartfelt message on X, formerly Twitter, Sheppard said, “Kentucky is home. Kentucky will always be home, however there is another part of my dream: to play basketball in the NBA. I believe it is time to pursue that dream.”
On April 2, Sheppard was named the National Freshman of the Year by the National Association of Basketball Coaches. He is the first player from Kentucky to win the honor since the awards inception in 2017. The United States Basketball Writers Association also named him its top freshman. He averaged 12.5 points, 4.5 assists, 4.1 rebounds and 2.5 steals per game for the Cats. He was also ruthless from 3-point range, shooting 52.1%. According to ESPN, no first-round pick from college has ever shot over 50% from 3 since Glen Rice at Michigan in 1988-89.
In his video he said, “I’m so thankful to wear the blue and white jersey that represents my family, my friends and the hard working faithful fans of the Big Blue Nation.” He ended his announcement saying, “I represent you with all the characteristics that make us Kentuckians; passion, humility, perseverance, sacrifice and joy. And one day I’ll return to family, to friends and to Kentucky, my home. I love you BBN. Thank you.”
Sheppard is the No. 7 prospect in ESPN’s NBA draft projections. The NBA Draft combine will be May 13-19 in Chicago. The NBA Draft will be in New York City on June 26-27.