June 27, 2002

Tayshaun Prince, who graduated in May with a degree in sociology, was drafted in the first round of the 2002 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons. He became the Wildcats’ ninth first-round pick in the last seven years.

Prince completed one of the most storied careers in the program’s 99-year history in March, finishing seventh on UK’s all-time scoring list (1,775), second in three-pointers made (205) and attempted (621) and fifth in blocked shots (142).

He withdrew his name from the 2001 NBA Draft and returned for his senior season to lead UK in scoring (17.5 ppg) and rebounding (6.3 rpg). He earned several honors last season alone, including first-team All-SEC by both The Associated Press and the Coaches. He also was named second-team All-American by the NABC and third-team All-American by the AP.

Prince was among 20 finalists for the Wooden Award, which recognizes the top men’s college basketball player each season, and one of 10 finalists for the Senior CLASS Award. The award was established to honor student-athletes who complete their eligibility.

Kentucky’s most recent first-round selection came in 2000 when Jamaal Magloire was picked 19th by the Charlotte Hornets. The Cats have 11 active NBA players.