It’s been nearly a decade since Karl-Anthony Towns brought home the NBA Rookie of the Year Award in 2016, and Kentucky Wildcats fans are eager to see another former Cat claim the prestigious title. This year, Reed Sheppard and Robert Dillingham, two of the most electrifying players to come out of Kentucky in recent years, are generating buzz as top contenders for the 2025 NBA Rookie of the Year.
While discussions about Sheppard and Dillingham’s future success in the NBA may stir up mixed emotions for Big Blue Nation, especially after their disappointing early exit from the NCAA tournament, there’s no denying the excitement surrounding their professional prospects. Despite the tournament letdown, both players have demonstrated their immense talent and potential, and Kentucky fans will no doubt be cheering them on as they embark on their NBA journeys.
Reed Sheppard, the hometown hero from North Laurel High School, has already made waves since leaving Lexington. After a stellar performance in the NBA Summer League this past July, Sheppard has skyrocketed to the second-best odds to win the NBA Rookie of the Year, according to DraftKings Sportsbook. His transition to the professional level has been nothing short of impressive, with scouts and analysts alike taking notice of his smooth shooting, basketball IQ, and relentless work ethic.
On the other hand, Robert Dillingham, who dazzled at Kentucky and honed his craft with Overtime Elite (OTE), is also being viewed as a strong contender for the award. Currently listed at +1700 odds, Dillingham’s value as a Rookie of the Year candidate should not be underestimated. Known for his ability to score in bunches and his quickness on the court, Dillingham’s style of play is tailor-made for the NBA. The longer games and the league’s faster pace are expected to play to his strengths, allowing him to thrive as a dynamic scorer.
The fact that two former Wildcats are being seriously considered for the NBA’s top rookie honor speaks volumes about the talent that Kentucky continues to produce. Over the years, the program has sent numerous players to the NBA, many of whom have become stars in their own right. However, the Rookie of the Year Award has remained elusive since Towns’ win in 2016. Sheppard and Dillingham’s emergence as frontrunners for the award could finally break that drought.
For the Big Blue Nation, watching Sheppard and Dillingham compete at the highest level will be bittersweet, especially given what could have been in their final college season. Yet, there’s also a sense of pride in knowing that these two players, who gave their all for Kentucky, are now poised to make an impact in the NBA. Their journey from college standouts to potential Rookie of the Year winners is a testament to their hard work, talent, and the foundation they built at Kentucky.
As the 2025 NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Sheppard and Dillingham as they take their first steps onto the professional stage. If early odds and performances are any indication, this could be the year that a former Wildcat once again hoists the Rookie of the Year trophy, bringing new glory to the storied Kentucky basketball program.
