Legends in Numbers: Honoring the Greatest to Ever Wear No. 8 and 9 in Kentucky Basketball History
As part of our summer spotlight on Kentucky basketball’s storied history, we take a step back in time to explore two jersey numbers that might not scream superstardom, but carry with them a deep legacy of grit, contribution, and foundational impact—numbers 8 and 9.
While many remember the high-flying dunks and championship moments of more modern Wildcats, the players who donned these two humble numbers were carving their paths long before Kentucky became the blue-blood powerhouse we know today. Their names may not sit atop draft boards or highlight reels, but their contributions remain embedded in the program’s roots. Let’s dive in.
No. 8 – Marvin Akers: The Quiet Storm of the Early ’40s
Best to Ever Wear It: Marvin Akers (1940–43)
When you talk about the best to ever wear the No. 8 jersey for Kentucky, the conversation begins—and essentially ends—with Marvin Akers. A forward who played during one of the most uncertain eras in American history, Akers brought consistency, strength, and offensive firepower to the court during the early 1940s, right through the disruptions of World War II.
Over the course of three seasons, Akers amassed 462 points, leading the team in scoring during the 1941–42 campaign. He appeared in 71 games, recording 201 field goals and 60 free throws, a remarkable feat given the defensive-heavy style of that time. More than the numbers, though, Akers was a tone-setter. Playing under legendary coach Adolph Rupp, he helped mold what would become the culture of excellence that Kentucky basketball now lives by.
Marvin Akers’ career stats:
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71 games played
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201 field goals
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60 free throws
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462 total points
Akers’ legacy might not be broadcast on national networks, but within the Kentucky program, his name is spoken with respect. He showed that wearing the blue and white wasn’t just about numbers—it was about pride and progress.
Other Notables Who Wore No. 8:
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Evan Settle (1931–34): Tallied 21 points across three seasons. A quiet contributor in the pre-Rupp era.
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Charles Combs (1935–38): Scored 18 points in 19 games, showing steady development over time.
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Harry Gorham (1943–44): Managed 6 points in 4 appearances during a challenging wartime season.
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Ed Gough (1937–38): Notched 4 points in his lone appearance.
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Lawrence Crump (1930–31): Played a single game, contributing to the early building blocks of the program.
Though No. 8 has rarely been worn since, it remains symbolic of the program’s beginnings and a tribute to the men who built the foundation on which champions now stand.
No. 9 – Kenneth England: A Steady Force Under the Radar
Best to Ever Wear It: Kenneth England (1940–42)
The best to wear No. 9 may not have made front-page headlines in his time, but Kenneth England was a consistent and reliable player when Kentucky needed him most. During two seasons of play, England recorded 154 points over 41 games, including 51 field goals and 52 free throws—an indication of his physical style of play in the paint and his ability to earn trips to the line.
In an age where every possession mattered and scoring opportunities were limited, England made each one count. His presence in the post gave Kentucky a tough interior option, and his poise helped stabilize the team during transitional years. He might not be a household name, but for those who know the game’s history, Kenneth England is a name worth remembering.
Kenneth England’s career stats:
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41 games
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51 field goals
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52 free throws
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154 total points
Other Notables Who Wore No. 9:
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James Goforth (1934–37): Scored 85 points in 55 games, making him a strong alternate candidate for this honor.
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Crittenden Blair (1931–34): A respected role player who posted 22 points in 10 appearances.
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Bill Spicer (1935–36): Scored 12 points in just 5 games—a short but memorable stint.
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Cecil Bell (1930–32): Registered 4 points across five games.
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Glen Parker (1943–44): Appeared in 3 games and scored 4 points during the wartime season.
A Modern Link to a Storied Past: Trent Noah
In recent memory, jersey No. 9 made a comeback on the back of Trent Noah during the 2024–25 season. While he may still be early in his journey, Noah’s performance already makes him a name to watch. In 24 games, he scored 64 points, hit 12 three-pointers, and maintained an impressive 45.1% field goal percentage.
As Noah continues to develop, there’s real potential for him to rewrite the history of the No. 9 jersey. Should he stay and build on this foundation, he could soon rival Kenneth England for the top spot on this list.
Final Thoughts
When people talk about iconic Kentucky basketball jerseys, the conversation usually revolves around numbers like 1, 5, or 23—worn by players who graced the national spotlight and left for the NBA as one-and-done stars. But behind every championship banner and draft success story is a long lineage of lesser-known pioneers. The players who wore No. 8 and 9 might not have played in the modern era, but they laid the groundwork for it.
Marvin Akers and Kenneth England didn’t just wear the Kentucky jersey—they wore it with pride, in times of hardship, and helped shape what would become one of college basketball’s most revered programs.
And now, with Trent Noah emerging as a new symbol of promise in the No. 9, fans get the rare opportunity to watch history evolve in real time. The story of Kentucky basketball isn’t just told in trophies and titles—it’s stitched into every jersey, every number, every name.
Keep watching. The next chapter might be written sooner than you think.
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