Karl-Anthony Towns’ college career and draft choice were deeply influenced by his decision to join the University of Kentucky in 2013. Known for its passionate and intense basketball atmosphere, Kentucky offered Towns a platform where fan engagement and tradition are unmatched. The program, led by coach John Calipari, has been a consistent hub for top NBA talent, which notably attracted Towns during his high school to college transition.
During the 2014-15 NCAA season, Towns starred on one of the most talented Kentucky teams in history. Alongside fellow future NBA stars like Devin Booker, Tyler Ulis, Willie Cauley-Stein, and Aaron Harrison, Towns helped the Wildcats achieve an undefeated regular season run before falling to Wisconsin in the Final Four. Despite the unexpected loss, that Kentucky squad remains one of the most memorable teams in college basketball history.
Kentucky’s one-and-done reputation has continued to produce prolific NBA players, with names like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Tyrese Maxey, Malik Monk, Jamal Murray, and Tyler Herro all emerging in subsequent years. Towns’ presence helped cement Kentucky’s reputation as a basketball powerhouse, making his lone college season one of remarkable influence.
John Calipari’s Insight on Towns’ Draft Choice Over the Lakers
John Calipari recently shed light on Towns’ preference to be the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft rather than join the Los Angeles Lakers at No. 2. In an interview, Calipari shared that while the Lakers hoped to select Towns second overall, Towns remained intent on being the top choice.
“When Karl Towns was getting drafted the Lakers wanted him at 2, I said ‘You may wanna be the 2 pick and be in LA.’ He said ‘Nah I’ll wear a coat. I wanna be the #1 pick.’ And he enjoyed his time in Minnesota” — John Calipari, Kentucky Coach
This anecdote illustrates Towns’ ambition to succeed on his own terms and not solely based on joining a glamorous franchise. His decision eventually led him to Minnesota, where he immediately became a cornerstone player for the Timberwolves.
What If Karl-Anthony Towns Had Joined the Lakers Instead?
Speculation surrounds how Karl-Anthony Towns’ career might have unfolded had he joined the Lakers as the No. 2 pick. By the summer of 2018, Towns had already established himself as one of the most versatile and skilled scoring centers in NBA history, renowned for his shooting range. However, his defensive game and physical toughness were areas perceived as needing improvement.
Had Towns landed with the Lakers, he would likely have had the opportunity to play alongside LeBron James, who moved to Los Angeles prior to the 2018-19 season. This pairing could have altered the landscape of the Western Conference, potentially resulting in more championship runs for LeBron and maybe even changing the franchise’s strategy regarding acquiring Anthony Davis.
Despite this hypothetical, Towns’ actual career has been impressive. In his first decade, he has demonstrated resilience and skill, leading the Timberwolves to consecutive Conference Finals appearances. As of now, his continued play with the New York Knicks alongside Jalen Brunson offers promise for sustained competitiveness on an NBA contender’s roster.
Kentucky Basketball’s Role in Shaping NBA Stars Beyond Towns
The Wildcats under John Calipari have cultivated a remarkable pipeline of NBA talent, with several players achieving All-Star status and solid careers. Along with Towns and Booker, the Wildcats’ legacy includes players like Jamal Murray and Tyler Herro, all of whom have become significant contributors at the professional level.
The passionate student sections, the high-pressure tournament atmosphere, and the tradition-rich environment have contributed not only to individual development but have also propelled Kentucky into being regarded as a cradle of future NBA talent.
Through Towns’ decision to prioritize being the first overall pick and his college experience at Kentucky, the narrative around his journey remains a lens into how collegiate programs can impact pro careers and draft strategy considerations.