Reed Sheppard, born on June 24, 2004, is an American college basketball player for the Kentucky Wildcats in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
He emerged as a top talent in the 2023 class, committing to Kentucky over other prestigious offers.
Reed’s high school career was remarkable, accumulating impressive stats like 3,727 points, 1,214 assists and 1,050 rebounds.
His impact on the court has been significant, leading in various statistical categories for Kentucky.
Reed’s versatility and selfless play have made him a fan favorite and a crucial player for the Wildcats.
Despite not having the most athletic profile, his efficiency and impact on team performance have been outstanding.
Early life
Reed, born on October 30, 2002, in London, Kentucky, has emerged as a rising star in the basketball world.
His early life was deeply rooted in basketball, coming from a family with strong ties to the sport.
As the son of former NBA player Jeff Sheppard, Reed inherited a basketball legacy that influenced his journey from a young age.
Growing up in Kentucky, Reed began honing his basketball skills early on, showcasing a unique blend of speed, agility and scoring ability.
His game as a dynamic guard is characterized by his ability to drive to the basket with finesse, shoot three-pointers effectively, and create opportunities for his teammates.
Known for his defensive tenacity and high basketball IQ, Reed has earned respect among players, coaches, and fans alike.
Reed’s high school career at North Laurel High School in London, Kentucky was marked by standout performances that caught the attention of college recruiters.
His scoring averages, leadership qualities, and all-around contributions to his team made him a highly sought-after prospect by NCAA Division I programs.
Ultimately, Reed made a significant decision to commit to the University of Kentucky, following in his father’s footsteps and choosing to represent the iconic blue and white jersey.
Parents
Jeff and Stacey Sheppard are the parents of Reed.
Jeff, a former NCAA basketball player at Kentucky, won the Most Outstanding Player award in the 1998 tournament.
After his playing career, Jeff founded his apparel company, 15 inc., specializing in golf shirts and other items.
Stacey, a standout basketball player at Laurel County High School and the University of Kentucky, was known as one of the best point guards in school history.
The couple settled in Laurel County and have two children, Madison and Reed.
They have instilled values of humility, kindness, and sportsmanship in Reed, emphasizing integrity both on and off the court.
Their supportive yet humble approach has influenced Reed’s character and athletic career significantly.
Reed Sheppard career
Reed is a talented 6’3″ guard from London, Kentucky, who has made a significant impact in the world of basketball.
At North Laurel High School in Kentucky, he was rated as high as No. 22 overall by ESPN and earned accolades such as McDonald’s All-American and Mr. Kentucky Basketball in 2023.
Reed led his team to various championships and impressive statistics, including averaging 22.5 points, 8.5 assists, and 8.4 rebounds per game.
Coming from a basketball-oriented family, both of Sheppard’s parents played college basketball at the University of Kentucky.
His father, Jeff, was the MVP of the 1998 Final Four and won two national championships with Kentucky.
Known for his high basketball IQ and selfless play, he has quickly become a fan favorite and a key player for the team.
Reed’s goals include continuous improvement in all aspects of his game, aiming to win a national championship with Kentucky while growing as a person and leader both on and off the court.