Kentucky Basketball Hits Different
Lamont Butler’s time in Lexington lasted only a season, but the impact was lasting. The veteran guard, who transferred in, brought leadership and poise while helping the Wildcats reach their first Sweet 16 since the pandemic-shortened season. Now, he’s chasing his NBA dream with the Atlanta Hawks.
“It was a one-of-a-kind experience, man. There’s nothing like playing for Kentucky,” Butler said recently on the Aztecs Wrap-Up Show. “I had an awesome year. We had a great group of guys, a really good team… The people in the program, Coach Pope and his staff, they’re all awesome. The fans were great. I really enjoyed my one year there.”
Butler, remembered for his iconic buzzer-beater that sent San Diego State to the 2023 national title game, reflected on the parallels between his two college stops.
“I think I’ve just been blessed to play at two schools with amazing fanbases. Both have such rich traditions and history. I really had an awesome college experience.”
At Kentucky, Butler averaged 11.4 points, 4.3 assists, and 2.9 rebounds over 27 starts. His value, though, went far beyond the box score. On a roster navigating transition under Mark Pope, he brought steadiness, maturity, and resilience — even gutting through stretches when he was down to one good arm.
After going undrafted, Butler landed a two-way deal with the Atlanta Hawks — a chance to prove himself in both the NBA and G League. “Man, it just felt like a dream come true,” he said. “To get a call from an NBA team and for them to want you to be part of their organization, it’s just something I’ve been working for my whole life.”
For Kentucky fans, his words carry weight. His stay in Lexington was brief, but the gratitude and impact he left behind remain lasting.
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