Rajon Rondo gives speech after being inducted into Kentucky Athletics Hall of Fame
Rajon Rondo was already a Kentucky legend, but now he’s a certified Hall-of-Famer. On Friday, the former Wildcats point guard was inducted into the UK Athletics Hall of Fame.
As a highly-touted Kentucky native, Rondo committed to head coach Tubby Smith and UK over in-state rival Louisville. It didn’t take long for the 6-foot-1 PG to make an impact for the ‘Cats. Rondo finished his freshman year at Kentucky averaging 8.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.6 steals per game.
His impressive debut campaign boosted Kentucky to the 2005 SEC regular-season championship. Rondo only improved in his sophomore campaign, leading the Wildcats in assists (167), total rebounds (209), points scored (380) and steals (69). For his efforts, he was named to the All-SEC second team.
Rondo had nothing but good things to say about his time in Lexington.
“Everywhere I’ve been everywhere when the UK fans have always followed me and been true to me from day one. I can’t thank you all enough,” Rondo said.
Rajon Rondo carries Kentucky’s torch in the NBA
Moving on from UK, Rondo was drafted 21st overall in the 2006 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns. Rondo was even more successful at the professional level. He played 16 years in the NBA, winning NBA championships with Boston and Los Angeles.
During his long career, Rondo was a four-time NBA All-Star and four-time selection on the NBA All-Defensive Team. Additionally, he led the NBA in assists for three years and led the league in steals one season.
While Rondo is not currently on an NBA roster, he joked about a potential return at the collegiate level.
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“Now that I’m going back to school now to complete my degree in communications, ][UK athletics director] Mitch [Barnhart], what’s up?'” Rondo said with a smile. “Maybe I got some years of eligibility left.
“I’m really picking up pickleball. I know they don’t have a team and I’m looking forward to trying new things. If I don’t have any eligibility left, maybe I can coach. But nevertheless, I’m thankful for this opportunity.”
Kentucky head coach John Calipari could always use an extra point guard. While Calipari did not coach Rondo at UK, he congratulated the once-Wildcat on the honor.
“Congrats to my friend Rajon on his induction into the UK Athletics Hall of Fame!” Calipari wrote on Twitter. “From being an All-SEC pick to a first-rounder to a four-time All-Star and NBA champion, Rajon has excelled and been a tremendous competitor throughout. A well-deserved honor after a phenomenal career!”