Kahlil Whitney Embraces Support from Big Blue Nation Ahead of TBT Return
Former Kentucky Wildcat Kahlil Whitney is feeling the warmth and support of the Big Blue Nation once again. As a member of La Familia — the University of Kentucky’s alumni team participating in The Basketball Tournament (TBT) — Whitney recently spoke to the media ahead of their upcoming matchup, reflecting on his past and the unexpected love he’s been receiving from the Kentucky fan base.
Whitney’s time at Kentucky during the 2019-2020 season was brief and, for many, confusing. He appeared in only 18 games before leaving the program midway through the season. During his short stint, he averaged 3.3 points and 1.7 rebounds per game, shooting 37% from the field and just 25% from beyond the arc. His early departure left fans with mixed feelings, and his sudden exit sparked criticism and speculation. However, time has softened opinions, and the tone among fans has clearly shifted.
Now, years later, Whitney is back in the blue and white — this time as part of La Familia — and is seizing the opportunity to reconnect with a fan base that’s showing renewed appreciation. According to Whitney, the outpouring of support on social media has been overwhelming. Messages from fans have flooded in, expressing gratitude for his return and celebrating his decision to suit up for the alumni squad.
Whitney described the opportunity to play for La Familia as “the perfect situation” to make amends and bring something positive to Kentucky basketball this summer. It’s a chance for him to rewrite his story with Big Blue Nation — not by erasing the past, but by creating something meaningful in the present.
La Familia’s first challenge in the TBT comes this Friday night when they take on Stroh’s Squad at 9 PM ET in Lexington. The game will be broadcast nationally on FS1, giving fans across the country a chance to witness Whitney’s return to the court in Kentucky colors.
As he looks to contribute to a winning run in the high-stakes tournament, Kahlil Whitney is embracing the moment and the fans, hoping this second chapter with Kentucky is one both he and BBN can be proud of.
