In the heart of basketball country, where the love of the game is as rich as the horse racing magnets who regularly visit Keeneland, the University of Kentucky has housed some real legends. Here’s a look at some of the best in-state talent that not only grew up with dreams of wearing blue but lived them out on the hallowed hardwood of Rupp Arena.

1. Rex Chapman – Apollo High School, Owensboro

High School: Known for his scoring prowess, Chapman averaged nearly 30 points per game as a senior.
UK Career: From 1986 to 1988, Chapman left his mark, averaging 17.8 points per game. His shooting was legendary, with a 45.4% field goal percentage. His flair for dramatic plays, like his game-winning dunk against Louisville, made him a fan favorite.

2. “King” Kelly Coleman – Wayland High School, Wayland

High School: Coleman was so good that he once scored 101 points in a game, a Kentucky high school record still standing.
UK Career: Coleman’s time at UK was brief, from 1956 to 1958, where he averaged 16.6 points per game. His talent was undeniable, but his legend was forged in high school.

3. Rajon Rondo – Eastern High School, Louisville

High School: Rondo was a star, named Kentucky’s Mr. Basketball in 2004, known for his vision and passing.
UK career: Playing from 2004 to 2006, Rondo’s contributions went beyond stats with 9.2 points, 4.9 assists, and 2.1 steals per game. His defensive prowess and playmaking were key in leading the Wildcats to an Elite Eight in 2005. He also went on to have a tremendous NBA career.

4. Jack Givens – Bryan Station High School, Lexington

High School: Givens was named Mr. Basketball in Kentucky in 1974.
UK Career: Playing from 1974 to 1978, Givens became a household name, especially after his 41-point performance in the 1978 NCAA Championship game against Duke, earning him the Most Outstanding Player award.

5. Richie Farmer- Clay County High School

High School: Farmer is a local legend, taking tiny Clay County in Manchester, KY to 3 state finals, winning one.
UK Career: From 1988-1992 Farmer struggled his first year under Eddie Sutton, but played a key role in the 92 team that took Duke down to the wire.

6. Travis Ford- Madisonville North Hopkins High School

High School: He was only the second player in school history to have his jersey retired as he holds school career reccords in assists and points among others.
UK Career: Playing from 1991 to 1994, Ford was instrumental in getting the Jamal Mashburn led Cats to the Final Four in 93. He is still 6th all time in three point makes, and was named Southeast Region Most Outstanding Player in the 1993 NCAA Tournament

These are the top 6 players who played in Kentucky in high school and then went on to play for the University of Kentucky in college. Miss anyone?