Kentucky basketball: All-time starting 5 – From Anthony Davis to Jamal Mashburn

SG – Tony Delk

Comparing the names that littered the honorable mention section to Tony Delk may have some readers scratching their heads. Yet, over the four years that he spent with the University of Kentucky Delk did more than enough to earn his spot as a member of this group. He came to Lexington after winning Mr. Basketball in Tennessee following his senior season and was also chosen as a Parade and McDonald’s All-American.

Delk’s first season with the Wildcats wasn’t much, he played less than 10 minutes per game and averaged less than five points per game. However, every year after that he saw his averages climb to over 25 minutes and 16 points per game. At 6-foot-1, he was on the shorter side for a shooting guard but positions aside Delk was just a pure basketball player. He could, dribble, pass, shoot and defend with the best of them and as he matured so too did his game.

He saved his best for last. During the 1995-96 season, he was the best player on a team that would go on to win the national title that year. In four of the six games that Kentucky played in the tournament Delk scored 20 or more points, including 24 in the championship game. His ability to consistently produce when called upon is what made him a staple of the Wildcats program.

Delk would leave the school as much more than just a national champion. He also took home the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player award in 1996. To go along with that he was a consensus All-American and SEC Player of the Year that season as well. Delk was also chosen to the All-SEC team three times. His double zero jersey was retired by the school.