When Karl-Anthony Towns returned to Lexington this past weekend, it wasn’t just to accept an honor — it was to remind everyone of what it means to be a Wildcat.
On Friday night, the former Kentucky star was officially inducted into the UK Athletics Hall of Fame, joining a 2025 class that also included women’s basketball legend Makayla Epps. For Towns, though, the spotlight was never solely on him.
“I know people expect me to say, I made the Hall of Fame,” Towns said, “but really, we made the Hall of Fame. This represents my whole team, my coaches, and the fans who carried us. This is our legacy.”
Remembering a Historic Season
Towns’ one season in Lexington (2014–15) was the stuff of legend: a 38-1 record, a Final Four run, and seven future NBA draft picks on one roster. His individual numbers — 10.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game — don’t scream superstardom, but the collective dominance of that team speaks louder than any stat line ever could.
It was also the last time Kentucky made a Final Four.
Back in Lexington — With Calipari in Tow
More than a decade has passed since Towns wore Kentucky blue, and plenty has changed. He’s now a 10-year NBA veteran, coming off a deep playoff run with the New York Knicks after a blockbuster trade from Minnesota. Yet some things remain the same — like grabbing Indi’s Chicken the moment he’s back in town.
Even his old college coach, John Calipari, made sure to celebrate with him. Calipari, now at Arkansas, skipped the ceremony itself but dined afterward with Towns, his family, and former assistant Kenny Payne at The Manchester Hotel.
“So happy for Karl and his family on his Hall of Fame induction!” Calipari posted. “Proud of you, Karl. So glad we could be here to celebrate.”
A Word for the New Wildcats
Perhaps the most powerful moment came when Towns dropped in on practice before the ceremony. He spoke directly to Mark Pope’s 2025–26 team, urging them to block out distractions and embrace their place in history.
“Be in the present,” Towns told the team. “When you’ve got Kentucky across your chest, you’re the rock stars of Lexington. Treat everyone with respect, have humility, and appreciate this moment. Don’t worry about the NBA, don’t worry about money. Enjoy this now. You may never be in another room with this much talent again.”
Endorsing Mark Pope’s Era
Of course, Towns couldn’t escape questions about Kentucky’s coaching transition from Calipari to Pope. His answer? Nothing but confidence.
“Coach Pope is amazing,” Towns said. “As a coach and as a person, he’s one of a kind. Kentucky is in for a lot of years of great coaching and great leadership.”
Towns also pointed out how Pope has embraced Calipari-era stars, citing Devin Booker’s decision to outfit the Wildcats with his own signature Nike sneakers. That connection, he believes, will keep UK’s culture thriving.
“With Coach Pope, you’re not just going to see great players come through Kentucky,” Towns added. “You’re going to see boys turn into men. Parents trust him with their kids, and he’s doing an incredible job.”
Still Adding to His Own Legacy
Now 29 years old, Towns has put together a stellar NBA résumé: 23.1 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 40% from three-point range across 10 seasons. And yet, his Hall of Fame speech in Lexington proved that the bonds of Kentucky basketball run just as deep as any professional stat line.
“I’ll always be a Wildcat,” Towns said. “This isn’t just my honor. It’s ours.”
