Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame to Induct Two Wildcat Legends who are considered GOATS
Lexington,
The Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame is set to honor two of the most iconic athletes in University of Kentucky history, as Randall Cobb (football) and Tayshaun Prince (basketball) will be enshrined in the 2024 class. Both players left an indelible mark on their respective sports, not only during their time in Lexington but also throughout their illustrious professional careers.
This induction celebrates their contributions to Kentucky athletics and cements their legacies as two of the greatest Wildcats of all time. Their journeys—from blue-chip recruits to college stars, and eventually to household names in the NFL and NBA—exemplify excellence, perseverance, and dedication to the game.
Tayshaun Prince: The Silent Assassin Who Led UK to Glory
College Career: A Stalwart of the Tubby Smith Era
Tayshaun Prince arrived at Kentucky in 1998 as a lanky, 6-foot-9 forward from Compton, California. Over his four-year career, he evolved into one of the most complete players in program history. Known for his smooth shooting stroke, defensive prowess, and clutch performances, Prince became the heart and soul of the Wildcats during the early 2000s.
His senior year (2001-02) was nothing short of legendary. Prince averaged 17.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, leading Kentucky to a 32-4 record and a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. His most iconic moment came in the Sweet 16 against top-seeded Duke, where he dropped a career-high 41 points, including five consecutive three-pointers to open the game, shocking the Blue Devils and the nation. Though UK fell short of a title that year, Prince’s legacy as one of Kentucky’s all-time greats was secure.
NBA Success: A Champion and Defensive Stalwart
Selected 23rd overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2002 NBA Draft, Prince quickly became a key piece of one of the league’s most formidable teams. His length, basketball IQ, and lockdown defense made him a nightmare for opposing scorers.
Prince was instrumental in the Pistons’ 2004 NBA Championship run, where they upset the star-studded Los Angeles Lakers. His most memorable defensive play came in the Eastern Conference Finals, where he sprinted the length of the court to block Reggie Miller’s potential game-tying layup—a moment forever etched in NBA playoff lore.
Over his 14-year NBA career, Prince earned four All-Defensive Team selections and was revered as one of the league’s most respected veterans.
Legacy at Kentucky
Prince’s No. 21 jersey hangs in the rafters at Rupp Arena, a testament to his impact. He remains one of the most beloved Wildcats for his quiet leadership, work ethic, and unforgettable performances.
Randall Cobb: The Ultimate Kentucky Football Legend
College Career: A Do-It-All Phenom
Randall Cobb’s journey from Alcoa, Tennessee, to Lexington was the beginning of a historic career. A dynamic playmaker, Cobb played quarterback, wide receiver, and return specialist, becoming one of the most versatile players in SEC history.
Under coaches Rich Brooks and Joker Phillips, Cobb rewrote the Kentucky record books. In his junior year (2010), he accounted for 1,017 receiving yards, 424 rushing yards, and 17 total touchdowns, earning First-Team All-SEC honors. His ability to take over games—whether through electrifying runs, pinpoint passes, or clutch catches—made him a nightmare for defenses.
One of his defining moments came in 2010 against South Carolina, where he threw, ran, and caught touchdowns in a thrilling upset victory. By the time he left for the NFL, Cobb held 14 school records, including most career touchdowns (37).
NFL Stardom: A Reliable Playmaker for Over a Decade
Drafted in the second round (64th overall) by the Green Bay Packers in 2011, Cobb quickly became a favorite target of Aaron Rodgers. His breakout season came in 2014 when he hauled in 91 catches for 1,287 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl selection.
Cobb spent 10 seasons with the Packers, becoming one of the most reliable slot receivers in the league. He later played for the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, and New York Jets, proving his longevity in an ever-changing league.
In 2023, Cobb made an emotional return to the Packers, reuniting with Rodgers in a storybook ending to his career. Beyond his on-field success, he has been a leader in the ommunity, known for his philanthropy and mentorship.
At Kentucky, Cobb’s legacy is unmatched. He is widely regarded as the greatest offensive player in program history, and his No. 18 jersey is one of the most revered in UK football history.
The Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame induction is a celebration of two athletes who transcended their sports. Prince and Cobb not only dominated at UK but also represented the Bluegrass State with class and excellence at the highest professional levels.
Their enshrinement serves as a reminder of what makes Kentucky athletics special—players who leave it all on the court and field, inspiring future generations of Wildcats.The induction ceremony will take place later this year, with details to be announced soon.
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What are your favorite memories of Tayshaun Prince and Randall Cobb at Kentucky? Share your thoughts in the comments! #BBN #WildcatGreats
