The Kentucky Wildcats are renowned for producing NBA talent, but after their recent NCAA Tournament exit against Iowa State, it was an alum from the Cyclones who had some fun at their expense. Indiana Pacers' star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who shone at Iowa State from 2018 to 2020, took to social media to playfully tease the former Wildcats now thriving in the NBA.
Haliburton's jest revolved around the idea that many Kentucky alumni in the NBA now align themselves with the Arkansas Razorbacks, where their former coach, John Calipari, currently leads the charge.
Tyrese Haliburton's Playful Jab
Haliburton has become quite the presence on social media, especially during his recovery from a torn Achilles suffered in the 2025 NBA Finals. With the onset of March Madness, he made it clear he would be sharing his thoughts, advising fans to "Make one bracket and stand on it."
As Iowa State, a second seed, comfortably defeated Kentucky, Haliburton continued his witty commentary. He humorously mentioned wanting to text former Kentucky players about Iowa State's 82-63 victory, but joked that they now consider themselves Arkansas alums, poking fun at their loyalty to Calipari.
Notable Kentucky Alumni in the NBA
Kentucky has no shortage of talent in the NBA. Some of the standout players include:
- Bam Adebayo (Heat)
- Devin Booker (Suns)
- Anthony Davis (Wizards)
- De'Aaron Fox (Spurs)
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder)
- Tyler Herro (Heat)
- Tyrese Maxey (76ers)
- Jamal Murray (Nuggets)
- Julius Randle (Timberwolves)
- Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks)
Calipari's Move to Arkansas
John Calipari's tenure with Kentucky ended in April 2024 after 15 successful years. Following a surprising first-round loss in the 2024 NCAA Tournament, he stepped down and soon after took the head coaching position at Arkansas.