He’ll be one of three Wildcats in attendance in Chicago May 9-11.
As Mark Pope begins winding down his offseason scramble to assemble a roster for next season, several of his former Kentucky Wildcats aim to scratch and claw their way onto an NBA roster this fall.
Recently, the names of 45 invitees for the 2025 G League Elite Camp were released and Amari Williams and Jaland Lowe were both listed.
On Monday evening, revisions were made after several prospects declined, opening the door for Lamont Butler to receive an invitation.
When healthy, Butler was playing at an elite level establishing himself as one of the best veteran guards in the nation. Unfortunately, injuries derailed his final season of collegiate basketball despite his warrior-like efforts to push through the pain.
Anyone who followed Kentucky hoops developed a respect for Lamont Butler and his willingness to sacrifice for the greater good. His on-ball tenacity really gave UK an edge that they desperately needed while playing in the toughest league in America.
“Well, mostly in the moment, I was just feeling for Lamont. We feel this all the time. We don’t have that much time left and he’s been so incredibly such a winner and such a leader and it’s like, I just want him so badly to be able to play.” Pope said on February 11th after UK handled Tennessee 75-64 in Lexington.
Butler would finish the season hobbled but giving his best effort. He’d end the year averaging 11.4 points per game and shooting just under 40% from deep.
It’s obviously Butler’s defensive abilities that separate him from other guards. He was credited with 42 steals last year. If the Moreno Valley, CA native can find his groove on offense and play lockdown defense, he could have a chance to play in the NBA.
Guys like Lamont Butler will be remembered fondly for choosing to trust Mark Pope and laying the foundation for what is expected to be a terrific period of Kentucky basketball.