Wildcats dominate the competition in 2024-25
The University of Kentucky has long been a powerhouse in college basketball. In the NBA season 2024-25, the alumni made the biggest statistical impact in the competition. According to Synergy Player Impact Data, Kentucky players for +1543 combined impact points, far for Duke’s +646, the next nearest school.
More than 30 former Wildcats are currently active in the NBA, but nobody is larger than Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Oklahoma City Thunder star not only led his team to the NBA championship 2025, but also earned League MVP subjessions.
Shai’s MVP season
Gilgous-Alexander on average 32.7 points, 5 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.7 steals per match during the regular season. His real shooting percentage of 57.4% reflected his efficiency and both scorer and playmaker.
He is not the only former Wildcat on the Thunder. Cason Wallace, another product in Kentucky, played a key role in the success of the team. Together they helped to solidify Oklahoma City as one of the deepest teams in the competition.
The highest combined Synergy Player impact during the 2024-25 #Nba Season per college present: pic.twitter.com/eaka5kon6l
– Synergy Basketball (@Synergysst) August 5, 2025
Praise from John Calipari
Former head coach of Kentucky, John Calipari, has praised Gilgous-Alexander on various occasions. On The Pat McAfee showCalipari attracted comparisons between Gilgeous-Alexander and another MVP that he coached, Derrick Rose.
“I coached two MVPs: Derrick Rose and Shai. Both had the same DNA. Incredible teammates,” Calipari said. “Shai will not do an interview unless his teammates are in the area. Derrick would not take a photo unless his teammates were nearby.”
Calipari emphasized their character and drive:
“They were both wired and driven; one by trying to prove:” I am better than you think, “the other who tries to make what he was.”
Gilgeous-Alexander trip
Gilgeous-Alexander spent a season in Kentucky before introducing the 2018 NBA concept. He was selected no. 11 generally by the Charlotte Hornets and was later traded to the La Clippers. By 2019 he landed in Oklahoma City, where he developed into one of the best guards in the competition.
At the age of 27, Gilgous-Alexander might just get started. The impact of Kentucky on the NBA is clear – and with players like he is at the forefront, it is not nearly over yet.
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