Few jersey numbers in Kentucky basketball history carry as much legacy as No. 12. From championship legends of the 1940s to modern NBA stars, the number has been worn by some of the Wildcats’ most important players. Let’s break down the best of the best to ever put on that jersey.
1. Ralph Beard (1945–49)
When you talk about Kentucky’s greats, Ralph Beard belongs at the top. A three-time consensus first-team All-American, Beard led the Wildcats to two national championships (1948, 1949) and was a key part of the famous “Fabulous Five”. To top it off, he won an Olympic gold medal in 1948. For many historians, Beard is the greatest Wildcat to ever wear No. 12.
2. Karl-Anthony Towns (2014–15)
Though Towns only played one season at Kentucky, he made it one of the most memorable in program history. As a consensus All-American, Towns anchored a dominant team that started the season 38–0 and reached the Final Four. His play helped him become the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, and today he’s one of the best big men in the NBA.
3. Antonio Reeves (2022–24)
Reeves’ Kentucky career was short but unforgettable. A transfer sharpshooter, Reeves blossomed into the Wildcats’ go-to scorer and veteran leader in 2023–24. He averaged over 20 points per game his senior season, earned All-SEC honors, and became a fan favorite for his clutch shooting.
4. Deron Feldhaus (1987–92)
A proud member of the “Unforgettables”, Feldhaus helped Kentucky recover from probation and restore the program’s tradition. Known for his toughness and leadership, Feldhaus embodied what it meant to wear the Wildcat jersey during a difficult era.
5. Brandon Knight (2010–11)
Knight was another one-and-done star, but he left his mark. He averaged 17.3 points per game, hit multiple clutch shots in the NCAA Tournament, and led Kentucky all the way to the Final Four in 2011.
Other Notable No. 12s
Keion Brooks Jr. (2019–22) – A reliable scorer and rebounder during his time in Lexington.
Rodrick Rhodes (1992–95) – Talented forward who later transferred, but still had flashes of brilliance in blue.
Cliff Hawkins (2001–04) – A steady floor general and defensive specialist.
While several stars have worn No. 12, the honor of “best ever” still belongs to Ralph Beard, whose combination of national titles, Olympic gold, and All-America honors has stood the test of time. Still, modern fans will always remember Towns’ dominance, Reeves’ scoring, and the grit of Feldhaus and Knight.
No matter the era, the No. 12 jersey has always represented winning, leadership, and Kentucky basketball tradition.
