As summer rolls on in the Bluegrass, our countdown of Kentucky basketball’s all-time greatest jersey numbers is heating up. Today, we zero in on No. 18 — a number rarely seen on the hardwood in Lexington but still rich with history and impact. Only seven Wildcats have ever worn it, but one stands out above the rest.
The GOAT of No. 18: Dale Barnstable
When you talk about No. 18 legends in Kentucky hoops history, Dale Barnstable is the name to know.
Playing under the legendary Adolph Rupp from 1946 to 1950, Barnstable was a consistent force during one of Kentucky’s most dominant stretches. He played in a whopping 129 games, dropping 635 points and delivering rock-solid performances year after year.
His peak came in the 1948–49 season, when he earned Third-Team All-SEC honors from the Associated Press. While he wasn’t always the top scorer, his leadership and reliability made him the backbone of a stacked roster.
Career Highlights:
129 games played
635 points scored
1948–49 All-SEC (Third Team – AP)
Barnstable didn’t just wear the jersey — he made No. 18 matter.
Honorable Mentions: Other Wildcats to Wear No. 18
While Barnstable holds the crown, let’s not forget the others who rocked the number:
Ermal Allen (1939–42): Scored 272 points in 65 games and earned First-Team All-SEC honors. Later made a name as a football coach under Bear Bryant.
Paul Noel (1942–43): Played one season, putting up 84 points in 20 games before joining WWII service.
Jim Howe (1944–45): Limited action — just 5 games and 18 points during a war-affected season.
Dwight Price (1950–51): Role player who added 34 points and 43 rebounds in 20 games.
Bill Trott (1928–31): One of the earliest to wear it, with 7 points in 16 games.
Houston Nutt (1951–52): Played just one game before transferring. His son later became a top SEC football coach.
Coming Soon: Who’s the Greatest No. 19?
Next up in our summer series, we dive into another forgotten jersey: No. 19. It may not be a number you instantly recognize, but Kentucky history has a way of turning hidden gems into legends.
