When it comes to basketball, few college programs carry the weight of tradition, excellence, and alumni pride quite like the University of Kentucky. From packed nights at Rupp Arena to championship banners and NBA pipelines, Big Blue Nation is a force unlike any other. And in The Basketball Tournament (TBT), that same passion now has a home with La Familia—Kentucky’s official alumni team. Built on a foundation of former Wildcats bonding together under one banner, La Familia made waves when it announced that longtime fan favorite Willie Cauley-Stein would be suiting up. Now, that excitement has doubled, with two more former Kentucky players officially joining him for this summer’s run.
La Familia is shaping up to be more than just a group of former teammates getting the band back together. It’s a mission. It’s about pride, unfinished business, and the unique bond that ties all Kentucky players—past and present—into a family. With the addition of these two former Wildcats alongside Cauley-Stein, La Familia’s roster isn’t just building; it’s transforming into a dangerous and deeply motivated group capable of making a serious run at the $1 million TBT prize.
While official rosters are still coming together, the newly added names carry serious weight in Big Blue circles. Each brings their own legacy, style, and edge to the squad. Their identities haven’t just been molded by their time in Lexington, but elevated by it. These aren’t just good players—they’re part of a brotherhood that took the floor at one of college basketball’s most iconic programs and learned how to win at the highest level.
Let’s start with the centerpiece: Willie Cauley-Stein. A 7-footer with freakish athleticism and a motor to match, Cauley-Stein made his name at Kentucky as the ultimate rim protector and a key piece of one of the most dominant teams in NCAA history. His versatility on defense, ability to run the floor, and high-energy presence made him a fan favorite, and his role in the 2014-2015 team that went 38-1 remains unforgettable. His return to organized basketball in a setting like TBT isn’t just exciting—it’s symbolic. It’s a declaration that Cauley-Stein is ready to compete again and that Kentucky alumni are taking this tournament seriously.
But the new additions aren’t just side characters to Cauley-Stein’s return. They’re stars in their own right, and their inclusion on La Familia means business.
First up is Marcus Lee. A high-flying forward from the 2013 and 2014 squads, Lee became known for his explosive leaping ability and shot-blocking instincts. As a freshman, Lee had one of the most memorable breakout performances in Kentucky postseason history, scoring 10 points and grabbing eight rebounds in a surprise start during the 2014 Elite Eight win over Michigan. It was a coming-out party that showed just how deep and dangerous that Wildcats roster was. Though he played behind lottery talent, Lee made his impact through hustle, athleticism, and an infectious energy that helped fuel Kentucky’s deep tournament run.
Now older, stronger, and more polished, Lee brings experience playing overseas and in the NBA G League. His commitment to La Familia is another example of how deep the Kentucky roots run—and how determined these players are to represent the program on a new stage. Lee and Cauley-Stein together form a fearsome frontcourt duo that promises to be a nightmare for opponents trying to score inside. And given their shared history on the floor, the chemistry should click right away.
Joining them is another Wildcat whose time in Lexington might have been shorter, but no less impactful: Andrew Harrison. As the floor general of the 2013-14 and 2014-15 teams, Harrison was the heartbeat of two Kentucky squads that made back-to-back Final Fours, including the near-perfect season. With ice in his veins and a knack for hitting clutch shots—his game-winners in the NCAA Tournament are still talked about in Lexington—Harrison’s inclusion on La Familia signals a major backcourt boost.
Harrison was never one to shy away from big moments. His calm demeanor and confident leadership helped guide one of the most talented rosters in college basketball history. Since leaving Kentucky, he’s played in the NBA, the G League, and internationally, gaining valuable experience against high-level competition. He brings a complete game to the table: steady ball-handling, a solid outside shot, and the kind of poised decision-making that’s crucial in a single-elimination tournament like TBT.
With Harrison running the point, Cauley-Stein anchoring the paint, and Lee flying all over the court, La Familia has the foundation of a squad that can not only compete—but dominate. Each player brings something unique, but their shared Kentucky DNA is what binds them. They know what it means to play for something bigger than themselves. They know what it means to play with a target on their backs. And most of all, they know what it means to be part of a legacy.
TBT is no stranger to star power. Over the years, the tournament has become a showcase for college alumni teams, international pros, and fringe NBA talent all competing in a high-stakes, winner-take-all format. But what sets La Familia apart is the culture. Kentucky’s alumni base is as passionate and loyal as any in the country. These aren’t just players from the same school; they’re family. They’ve sweated through summer practices, endured grueling SEC road trips, and been molded under the bright lights of March Madness. That bond doesn’t break—it just gets stronger.
The return of familiar names like Cauley-Stein, Lee, and Harrison instantly ignites fan excitement. But it also sends a message to the rest of the field: this isn’t a vanity project. This is Kentucky. This is serious. La Familia isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about winning. And with the kind of talent and chemistry already assembled, there’s no reason to believe they can’t cut down the nets this summer.
But make no mistake: TBT is a grind. It’s physical, fast-paced, and unforgiving. One bad game, and you’re out. That’s why depth, toughness, and cohesion matter so much. The early core of La Familia checks every box. They’ve played in high-pressure environments. They’ve battled through adversity. And now, with something to prove and everything to gain, they’re back on the same side—this time, with a million dollars on the line.
What makes La Familia particularly intriguing is the potential for more names to be added. Kentucky’s alumni pool is as deep as it gets, and the idea of more former Wildcats joining the fold isn’t just possible—it’s expected. The whispers have already started: Could we see a sharpshooter like Doron Lamb join the mix? Will veterans like Darius Miller or Patrick Patterson suit up one last time? What about fan favorites like Reid Travis or Tyler Ulis in a coaching role?
TBT allows teams to blend youth and experience, athleticism and savvy. And if La Familia continues to attract the right pieces, it’s easy to envision a deep run—and maybe even a title.
For Big Blue Nation, this is more than a summer tournament. It’s a chance to see their heroes again. It’s a chance to remember the moments that defined a decade of dominance. And it’s a chance to celebrate what it means to be a part of Kentucky basketball.
Willie Cauley-Stein returning to the court in La Familia blue and white is a big deal. Add Marcus Lee’s hustle and Andrew Harrison’s leadership to the mix, and you’ve got the kind of trio that makes fans dream big. It’s about redemption. It’s about legacy. And it’s about winning.
La Familia isn’t just Kentucky’s team in TBT—it’s Kentucky’s heart and soul, reborn for a new battle. And with these three Wildcats leading the way, the rest of the field better take notice. The family is back together. And they’re coming to win it all.