Who looked the best in it? The best number 18 in Kentucky

As Temperatures Climb, So Does Our Countdown: Who Was the Best to Wear No. 18 at Kentucky?

Our summer jersey countdown series rolls on, and with the heat of the season rising, so does the excitement. Today, we spotlight jersey No. 18 — a number worn sparingly in Kentucky basketball history, with just seven players donning it over the decades. With the NCAA loosening number restrictions in recent years, we may see No. 18 reappear more often on the hardwood. For now, though, we’re honoring the select few who wore it — and choosing the very best among them.

The Top No. 18: Dale Barnstable

When diving into the legacy of No. 18, one player clearly stands out: Dale Barnstable.

Barnstable played under legendary coach Adolph Rupp from 1946 to 1950 and was a steady contributor during one of Kentucky’s most dominant eras. In 129 games, he scored 635 points and played a consistent role on stacked Wildcats rosters. His most notable season came in 1948–49, when he was named Third-Team All-SEC by the Associated Press as Kentucky continued its national dominance.

Though not the team’s star, Barnstable was a reliable and respected figure during Kentucky’s first golden age. His longevity, consistency, and SEC honors make him the clear choice as the best to ever wear No. 18 for the Wildcats.

Career Highlights:

• 129 games played

• 635 points scored

• AP Third-Team All-SEC (1948–49)

Other Notable No. 18s:

• Ermal Allen (1939–42): Played 65 games and scored 272 points. Earned First-Team All-SEC and All-Tournament honors in 1941–42. Later had a distinguished football coaching career, including a stint under Bear Bryant.

• Paul Noel (1942–43): Scored 84 points in 20 games before leaving due to World War II.

• Jim Howe (1944–45): Appeared in five games, scoring 18 points during a wartime season.

• Dwight Price (1950–51): A role player who logged 20 games, 34 points, and 43 rebounds.

• Bill Trott (1928–31): One of the earliest to wear No. 18, scoring 7 points in 16 games over three seasons.

• Houston Nutt (1951–52): Played one game before transferring to Oklahoma State. He’s best known today as the father of future SEC football coach Houston Nutt Jr.

Next Up: No. 19

Stay tuned as our countdown continues with No. 19 — another seldom-used number with its own unique place in Kentucky basketball lore.