Was SGA able to wear number 22 among the top three Kentucky players?

Was SGA able to wear number 22 among the top three Kentucky players? You’ll have to look inside to find out.

🔥 Kentucky’s Legendary Jersey: Why No. 22 Might Be the Most Stacked Number in Wildcats History 🏀

Our summer countdown just hit one of the most loaded jersey numbers ever worn in Lexington. From iconic All-Americans to clutch champions and do-it-all glue guys, No. 22 has shaped generations of Wildcat greatness.

(Only UK stats and accolades count—so get ready for some pure Big Blue history.)

🚨 Kentucky’s No. 22 Jersey Has a Wild Legacy — You Won’t Believe Who Made the Top 3 👀🏀

From legends to future NBA stars, these Wildcats rocked the iconic double-deuce with pride. Here’s the full roster of No. 22 wearers: Garland Lewis, Ronald Clark, Jerry Bird, Sid Cohen, Charles Ishmael, Gene Stewart, Mike Pratt, Larry Stamper, Steve Green, Truman Claytor, Ryan Hogan, Patrick Sparks, Alex Poythress, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Reid Travis, Cason Wallace, and Amari Williams.

Now we’re breaking down the top 3 to ever wear it in Lexington — starting with No. 3: Alex Poythress (2012–2016).

💪 A warrior through and through, Poythress overcame a brutal ACL tear and still put up nearly 1,000 points and almost 600 boards. With a 55% FG rate, 99 blocks, and endless grit, he was the rock of Calipari’s frontcourt — and a key piece of multiple March runs.

You’ll never guess who ranks above him…

🏀 Kentucky Royalty: The No. 22 Jersey That’s Hanging in the Rafters — And the Legend Who Earned It 🔥

Coming in at No. 2 on our countdown of all-time Wildcats to rock the double-deuce: Jerry Bird (1953–1956).

Hailing from Corbin, Kentucky, Bird was a beast in the paint and a three-year starter under the legendary Adolph Rupp. With 713 points, 589 rebounds, and All-SEC honors to his name, he led the ‘Cats through a pivotal era with grit and dominance.

His legacy? Cemented forever — literally — as his No. 22 jersey now hangs proudly in the rafters of Rupp Arena. 💯

And we’re not done yet… wait until you see who topped this list!

👑 The Greatest No. 22 in Kentucky History? This Wildcat Legend Dominated On and Off the Court 🏀🔥

Coming in at No. 1 — and it’s not even close — Mike Pratt is the ultimate double-deuce in Kentucky lore.

In just 81 games, Pratt stacked up a jaw-dropping 1,359 points, 718 rebounds, and 281 assists, powering the Wildcats to three straight SEC titles and a Final Four appearance in 1968. A two-time First Team All-SEC and Second Team All-American, he wasn’t just a star — he was the star of his era.

But Pratt’s impact didn’t end after the final buzzer. As a beloved broadcaster and lifelong ambassador for Big Blue Nation, his voice became as iconic as his game. Now? His No. 22 jersey hangs high in Rupp Arena — a permanent tribute to a Wildcat legend. 🐾✨

You’ve seen the countdown. Do you agree with the No. 1 pick? Let the debate begin… 🔥

📣 FINAL TAKE: Why Kentucky’s No. 22 Jersey Is Dripping in Legacy — And Hanging Twice in the Rafters 🏀🔥

From Mike Pratt’s all-time greatness to Jerry Bird’s grit, Poythress’s relentless fight, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s superstar flair, No. 22 isn’t just a number — it’s a Wildcat legacy. Champions wore it. Legends made it iconic. And it’s honored in Rupp Arena not once, but twice. 👑

But don’t blink — tomorrow we dive into No. 23, a number with some GOAT-level expectations. 👀🐐 Stay locked in.