Happy Big Blue Birthday to one of Kentucky’s own—Derek Willis, the pride of Mount Washington and a beloved figure in the Wildcat family. Born on June 21, 1995, Willis carved out a memorable four-year career at the University of Kentucky, where he became known not just for his stats, but for his steady presence, versatility, and deep connection to the Bluegrass State.
Standing at 6-foot-9, Willis brought a unique blend of size and shooting ability to the forward position. He joined the Wildcats in 2013 as part of a star-studded recruiting class, but what set him apart was his patience and perseverance. While others may have chased the spotlight or transferred in search of more playing time, Willis stayed the course. Over four seasons, he grew from a role player into a reliable contributor, earning the respect of coaches, teammates, and fans alike.
By the time he wrapped up his college career in 2017, Willis had appeared in 103 games, tallying 555 points and 355 rebounds. He also recorded 50 assists, 49 steals, and 66 blocked shots—numbers that reflect his all-around impact on the court. But beyond the box score, it was his ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting and his willingness to do the dirty work that made him invaluable. He shot nearly 40% from beyond the arc during his time at Kentucky, a rare feat for a player of his size.
Willis’s journey was also deeply personal. As one of the few Native American players in Division I basketball, he carried a sense of pride and representation with him every time he stepped on the court. His roots in Mount Washington and his time spent on the Wind River Indian Reservation in Wyoming shaped his perspective and grounded him in humility. That authenticity resonated with fans, making him a fan favorite not just for his play, but for who he was off the court.
One of the most memorable moments of his college career came on Senior Night, when he proposed to his longtime girlfriend in front of a packed Rupp Arena. It was a fitting tribute to a player who had given his heart to the program and received so much love in return.
Since graduating, Willis has taken his talents overseas, playing professionally in Europe and continuing to represent Kentucky with pride. His journey is a testament to hard work, loyalty, and the power of staying true to yourself.
So today, we raise a toast to Derek Willis—not just for the points and rebounds, but for the legacy he left behind in Lexington. Happy birthday, Derek. Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat.
