The Kentucky Wildcats probably didn’t realize the caliber of player they were getting in 4-star guard Reed Sheppard, who joined the Cats at the start of last season and quickly became one of their best players.

From Kentucky, Sheppard quickly became a fan favorite. He exploded onto the scene mainly due to his consistency and efficiency, which helped him become the top collegiate player taken in the draft.

He was selected third overall in the 2024 NBA Draft.

Part of the SEC All-Freshman and All-SEC teams, Sheppard averaged 12.5 points per game during his lone season at Kentucky and shot 53.6% from the field and 52.1% from deep, both impressive feats in college hoops.

He continued that success at the 2K25 Las Vegas Summer League, scoring 20 points per game and shot 50% from the field while connecting on just 27.8% of his attempts from downtown.

That has helped Sheppard become the favorite to win NBA Rookie of the Year over the likes of Zach Edey, Stephon Castle, Alex Sarr, and Zaccharie Risacher, the latter two of whom went higher than Sheppard in the draft.

Sheppard won the ESPN staff over, receiving 62% of the first-place votes.

“Sheppard, the No. 3 pick in this year’s draft, led the voting this season after a standout performance at summer league,” the staff wrote.

They are absolutely correct, and while his three-point shooting didn’t reflect that, Sheppard has numerous eye-popping moments for the Rockets. He’s expected to play a major role on the team.

ESPN has rightfully put him atop the ROY favorites, and Sheppard should have a solid rookie season if it is anything like the show he consistently put at the Las Vegas Summer League.