The Kentucky Wildcats faithful are known for their unwavering passion, and when a player truly connects with the Big Blue Nation, that bond runs deep. So, when news recently broke about Ansley Almonor’s return to Lexington, the collective cheer from BBN was palpable. It wasn’t for another season of NCAA basketball, but for something equally significant in the hearts of Kentucky fans: he’s suiting up for “La Familia,” the Wildcats’ alumni team in The Basketball Tournament (TBT). It’s a swift, surprising, and utterly heartwarming reunion for a player who, in just one season, carved out a beloved place in Kentucky lore.
Ansley Almonor’s journey to Kentucky was already a compelling narrative. A highly productive forward at Fairleigh Dickinson, he made a name for himself as a sharpshooter and a key contributor to FDU’s historic upset of Purdue in the NCAA Tournament. When he entered the transfer portal, he was quickly identified by Coach Mark Pope and his staff as a perfect fit for their vision in Lexington. Coming from a smaller program, Almonor embraced the challenge of playing on college basketball’s biggest stage, arriving with a chip on his shoulder and a determination to prove he belonged.
And prove it he did. In his single season as a Wildcat, Almonor quickly became a fan favorite, a quintessential “glue guy” who made an impact far beyond his stat line. He embraced his role, whether it was starting or coming off the bench, and consistently delivered clutch moments. His ability to knock down crucial three-pointers, often in high-pressure situations, earned him the affectionate moniker of a “dagger-thrower.” BBN vividly remembers his timely triples that swung momentum and secured victories in tough road environments, becoming a reliable spark when the team needed it most. He was a veteran presence with a calm demeanor, a player who seemingly never got rattled, and whose unwavering effort was infectious.
Beyond the statistical contributions – which, notably, included becoming the first Kentucky men’s basketball player to shoot at least 50.0 percent from the field, 40.0 percent from 3-point range, and 90.0 percent at the free-throw line in a single season (min. 100 FGA, 50 3PFGA, 25 FTA) – Almonor’s impact was deeply cultural. He was an example of humility, hard work, and selflessness. When he was moved back to the bench to accommodate a returning teammate, he didn’t complain; he embraced the change and continued to produce at an elite level. This selfless attitude resonated deeply with coaches, teammates, and fans, cementing his status as a true Wildcat, even in just one year.
So, when the news of his participation in The Basketball Tournament with “La Familia” broke, it was met with immense excitement. It felt like a natural, almost inevitable, continuation of his Kentucky story. For Almonor, the decision to return to Lexington to play for the alumni squad was clearly driven by his deep appreciation for the program and the fanbase. “What’s up, BBN? I’ll be coming back to Lexington this summer for La Familia. I’ll see y’all soon,” Almonor reportedly said, a message that immediately brought joy to the Big Blue Nation. He further explained, “I already miss playing in front of BBN and I already miss the city of Lexington, so I can’t wait to go out there and represent you guys one more time.”
This sentiment speaks volumes about the unique connection Kentucky players forge with their fans. It’s not just about winning games; it’s about becoming part of a community, a tradition, a family. Almonor, despite his relatively brief tenure, clearly felt that bond intensely. His return for TBT is a testament to the special atmosphere at Kentucky and the lasting impact it has on its players. It shows that even after their NCAA eligibility is exhausted, many players retain a profound affection for the program and a desire to continue representing the blue and white.
“La Familia” itself has become a phenomenon, a beloved extension of the Kentucky basketball experience. Comprised of former Wildcat legends and fan favorites, the team provides an opportunity for BBN to relive past glories and cheer on familiar faces. The team’s success in TBT, reaching the semifinals in previous years, has only intensified this connection. For Ansley Almonor to join this esteemed group, alongside names like Doron Lamb, DeAndre Liggins, Aaron and Andrew Harrison, and Willie Cauley-Stein, is a significant honor and a clear indication of how quickly he endeared himself to the program. He is, notably, the first player from the Mark Pope era to commit to playing for “La Familia,” further cementing the bridge between the program’s past and its exciting new future.
His participation will allow BBN to celebrate his impact one more time in the familiar confines of Memorial Coliseum, where the Lexington regional of TBT will be hosted. It’s a chance for fans to express their gratitude for his selfless play, his clutch shots, and his unwavering commitment to the Kentucky standard. It’s a chance for Almonor to feel the roar of the Kentucky crowd again, a sound he clearly cherishes.
Ansley Almonor’s decision to suit up for “La Familia” is more than just an alumni playing a summer tournament. It’s a beautiful reflection of the enduring power of the Kentucky basketball legacy, the deep connection between its players and its fanbase, and the magnetic pull of the Big Blue Nation. He just left Kentucky, and he’s already back – a testament to a bond that, once formed, seems to last a lifetime.
