The 2012 Kentucky Wildcats: From NCAA Glory to Post-College Journeys

In 2012, the University of Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team achieved a monumental feat by clinching the NCAA National Championship. Under the guidance of Coach John Calipari, the team boasted a roster filled with exceptional talent, many of whom transitioned to professional basketball careers. This article delves into the post-college trajectories of these players, highlighting their achievements and current endeavors.

The 2011–2012 Kentucky Wildcats finished the season with an impressive 38–2 record, culminating in a decisive 67–59 victory over Kansas in the national championship game. The roster featured a blend of seasoned upperclassmen and standout freshmen, each contributing significantly to the team’s success.

• Position: Center
• NBA Draft: 1st overall pick by the New Orleans Hornets in 2012
• NBA Career: Davis quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier players, earning multiple All-Star selections and an NBA Championship with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020. As of 2025, he continues to play at an elite level with the Lakers.
• Position: Small Forward
• NBA Draft: 2nd overall pick by the Charlotte Bobcats in 2012
• NBA Career: Kidd-Gilchrist played eight seasons in the NBA, primarily with the Charlotte Hornets and Dallas Mavericks. Known for his defensive prowess, his career was hampered by injuries. Since retiring, he has been involved in advocacy for stuttering awareness, a personal challenge he overcame during his youth.
• Position: Power Forward
• NBA Draft: 18th overall pick by the Houston Rockets in 2012
• NBA Career: Jones had a seven-season NBA career, playing for the Rockets, New Orleans Pelicans, and Milwaukee Bucks. Post-NBA, he has continued his professional basketball journey overseas and, as of 2024, plays for Leones de Ponce in Puerto Rico.
• Position: Point Guard
• NBA Draft: 29th overall pick by the Chicago Bulls in 2012
• NBA Career: Teague’s NBA tenure spanned four seasons with the Bulls, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Indiana Pacers. Struggling to find consistent playtime, he transitioned to playing internationally, last appearing for Kolossos Rodou in Greece in 2022.
• Position: Shooting Guard
• NBA Draft: 42nd overall pick by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2012
• NBA Career: Lamb’s NBA career was brief, lasting two seasons. Subsequently, he embarked on an international career, playing in seven different countries. Currently, he competes in Italy’s Serie A2 league with UEB Gesteco Cividale.
• Position: Small Forward
• NBA Draft: 46th overall pick by the New Orleans Hornets in 2012
• NBA Career: Miller played six seasons in the NBA, primarily with the New Orleans Pelicans and Oklahoma City Thunder. Post-NBA, he has been active in European basketball, notably with Brose Bamberg in Germany, where he earned accolades such as the Bundesliga Finals MVP in 2016. He also represented the U.S. in the 2009 U-19 World Championship, securing a gold medal.
• Position: Power Forward
• Post-College Career: After transferring to Gonzaga, Wiltjer’s professional aspirations led him to play overseas. He had a brief stint with the Houston Rockets in the NBA but found more success playing in Italy, where he became known for his shooting prowess.
• Position: Center
• Post-College Career: Vargas continued his basketball career internationally, playing in various leagues across South America. As of the latest reports, he is active in Colombia, contributing his experience and skills to the local basketball scene
• Position: Guard
• Post-College Career: Hood transitioned into coaching, taking on roles at Missouri Western and previously at Kentucky Wesleyan and Frederick Douglass High School. His journey reflects a commitment to the development of future basketball talents.
• Position: Point Guard
• Post-College Career: After a brief professional career in the NBA, Harrow found success playing overseas. He has since returned to the United States, focusing on training and mentoring aspiring point guards, sharing his experiences to guide the next generation.
• Position: Guard
• Post-College Career: Beckham remained involved in basketball through coaching roles, including contributions to La Familia’s TBT team. Additionally, he serves as a motivational speaker, using his experiences to inspire others.
• Position: Guard
• Post-College Career: Malone has taken on a behind-the-scenes role as an assistant general manager for La Familia’s TBT team, leveraging his basketball knowledge in administrative capacities.

The 2012 Kentucky Wildcats not only achieved collegiate success but also laid the groundwork for numerous professional careers. Their journeys post-college highlight the diverse paths athletes can take, from continued professional play to coaching, advocacy, and mentoring roles. The team’s legacy endures, influencing future generations of basketball players and enthusiasts.

The 2012 Kentucky Wildcats exemplify the potential for collegiate athletes to transition successfully into various professional avenues. Their stories serve as a testament to the multifaceted opportunities available in the world of sports, beyond the confines of the playing court. As they continue to impact the basketball community, their legacy remains a source of inspiration.