In the world of college basketball, few names evoke the kind of admiration, pride, and reverence that Devin Booker does in Lexington, Kentucky. Now, the University of Kentucky is immortalizing that legacy in a tangible and powerful way. In a historic move that cements Booker’s place among the Wildcats’ elite, the university has announced plans to unveil a bronze statue of the NBA superstar outside the legendary Rupp Arena.
The statue, which will stand at the arena’s main entrance, is more than just a tribute—it is a celebration of excellence, perseverance, and the profound impact Booker made during his time in the blue and white. Though he spent only one season in Lexington, his legacy has endured for nearly a decade, carried not just by his smooth shooting stroke, but by his humility, work ethic, and loyalty to the program.
A Kentucky Legend, Born in One Season
Devin Booker arrived at the University of Kentucky in 2014 as part of what is widely considered one of the most talented recruiting classes in NCAA history. He joined forces with fellow future NBA stars Karl-Anthony Towns, Willie Cauley-Stein, Tyler Ulis, and Trey Lyles. Together, they formed a powerhouse team under head coach John Calipari that captured national attention with their dominance and chemistry.
During his freshman season, Booker averaged 10.0 points per game while shooting an impressive 47% from the field and 41% from beyond the arc. More importantly, he provided a steady scoring presence off the bench, often igniting Kentucky’s offense with his deadly shooting. The 2014–15 Wildcats went 38–1, reaching the Final Four and falling just short of a perfect season.
Though Booker played a supporting role on a star-studded roster, his maturity, selflessness, and professionalism stood out. He never complained about minutes. He never demanded the spotlight. Instead, he let his game speak—and it spoke volumes.
A Career That Skyrocketed
After his freshman campaign, Booker declared for the 2015 NBA Draft and was selected 13th overall by the Phoenix Suns. What followed was a meteoric rise that few could have predicted. In the years since, he has blossomed into one of the NBA’s premier scorers and most clutch performers.
Booker’s accolades are staggering: multiple All-Star selections, an NBA Finals appearance, and a 70-point game that etched his name into the record books. But perhaps what makes him most special to Kentucky fans is that through all the glitz and glamour, he never forgot where he came from.
“I owe so much of who I am to the University of Kentucky,” Booker said during the statue announcement. “It’s where I became a man, where I learned how to be a professional, and where I built lifelong relationships. To be honored like this—it means everything.”
The Statue: A Tribute in Bronze
The statue, which is currently being sculpted by world-renowned artist Omri Amrany—the same artist behind the Michael Jordan statue outside the United Center—will depict Booker in his iconic Kentucky uniform, releasing one of his picture-perfect jump shots.
Set to be unveiled ahead of the 2025–26 basketball season, the statue will be installed prominently at the main entrance to Rupp Arena, where generations of fans enter to witness greatness. The symbolism is clear: Devin Booker is not just part of Kentucky history—he is Kentucky history.
University President Eli Capilouto shared his excitement at a press conference announcing the project.
“Devin represents everything the University of Kentucky stands for—excellence, integrity, and leadership. His legacy is not only one of basketball brilliance but of character and commitment. This statue is our way of saying thank you—and of inspiring future Wildcats to follow in his footsteps.”
A Fanbase’s Tribute
For the Big Blue Nation, the announcement is a dream come true. Booker has remained a beloved figure in Lexington, not just for what he did on the court but for the way he’s continued to engage with the fanbase. He often returns during the offseason, participates in Kentucky events, and openly supports current players.
Social media erupted with excitement following the announcement. Hashtags like #BookerBronze and #BBNForever trended nationally, and former teammates, coaches, and fans shared their favorite Booker memories.
“I still remember that game against UCLA when he hit like seven threes in a row,” one fan wrote on X. “Cold-blooded. A statue is long overdue.”
Coach Cal’s Thoughts
John Calipari, who coached Booker during his lone season at Kentucky, delivered an emotional tribute.
“When Devin came here, he already had the heart of a champion,” Calipari said. “But what impressed me the most was his humility. He never tried to outshine anyone. He just did his job, and he did it better than most. This statue isn’t just for what he’s accomplished in the NBA—it’s about who he is as a person.”
Calipari also used the moment to reflect on the broader culture of Kentucky basketball.
“We talk about being a family, and Devin is family through and through. This program doesn’t just build players—it builds men. Devin’s journey is proof of that.”
Education, Community, and Giving Back
In addition to his on-court success, Booker has made a name for himself as a philanthropist. Through his Starting Five initiative, he pledged millions to support non-profit organizations focused on education, community development, and youth engagement—values that mirror the University of Kentucky’s mission.
Earlier this year, Booker also made a sizable donation to the UK Athletics program to enhance facilities and support student-athletes. That gift was another sign of his enduring bond with the school and its values.
The Broader Legacy of Kentucky’s Greats
The Devin Booker statue joins a select pantheon of Kentucky basketball legends who have received similar honors. From Dan Issel to Pat Riley to Anthony Davis, Kentucky’s rich history is lined with transcendent talent. But Booker’s journey is unique in that he became a superstar after his time at Kentucky, making his rapid transformation from sixth man to NBA icon all the more inspiring.
Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart emphasized the importance of that message.
“Devin’s story is one that every recruit, every student, every young athlete should hear. He came here to get better. He embraced his role. He trusted the process. And look at him now. He’s one of the best players in the world. That’s what Kentucky Basketball is all about.”
Ceremony Details and Unveiling Plans
The university announced that the unveiling ceremony will take place on October 25, 2025, just ahead of Kentucky’s Blue-White Scrimmage. The event will be open to the public, with former players, coaches, and celebrities expected to attend.
A special video tribute chronicling Booker’s time in Lexington and his NBA journey will be shown, followed by speeches from university leaders, Coach Calipari, and Booker himself. The event will be televised live on the SEC Network and streamed online for fans around the globe.
Commemorative merchandise, including limited-edition statues, t-shirts, and posters, will be released in conjunction with the event, with a portion of proceeds benefiting youth sports programs in Kentucky.
What It Means for the Future
The Booker statue is more than a tribute—it’s a statement. A statement about the kind of program Kentucky is, and the kind of players it produces. In a world where college athletes come and go in a flash, Booker’s story is a reminder that one year can be enough to make a lifelong impact.
It also signals to future recruits that Kentucky values not only performance but also character, legacy, and loyalty. That even after the banners have been hung and the games are over, the program still takes care of its own.
In honoring Devin Booker with a bronze statue, the University of Kentucky is honoring more than a player—it’s honoring a journey. A journey of sacrifice, discipline, growth, and ultimately, greatness.
From the moment he stepped onto the court at Rupp Arena, Booker embodied everything it means to be a Wildcat. And now, generations of fans and future players will walk by his statue, look up, and be reminded of what is possible when talent meets heart, and when humility fuels ambition.
As the sun sets on the horizon of downtown Lexington, and the lights of Rupp glow with anticipation of another season, the image of Devin Booker—forever cast in bronze—will stand as a beacon of excellence for all to see.
