Reed Sheppard’s journey to the NBA has been nothing short of remarkable. Growing up in London, Kentucky, Sheppard was a standout player at North Laurel High School, earning numerous accolades, including Kentucky Mr. Basketball and McDonald’s All-American.
Sheppard’s impressive high school career led him to the University of Kentucky, where he played for the Wildcats during the 2023-2024 season. As a freshman, he averaged 12.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, earning him SEC Freshman of the Year and National Freshman of the Year honors.
Reed’s parents, Jeff Sheppard and Stacey Reed, have a rich basketball legacy, particularly with the University of Kentucky. His father, Jeff Sheppard, was a standout player for the Wildcats from 1993 to 1998, earning the Most Outstanding Player title in the 1998 NCAA tournament and contributing to Kentucky’s two national championship victories. Jeff’s collegiate success was followed by a brief stint with the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks.
Reed’s mother, Stacey Reed, also played college basketball at the University of Kentucky, where she scored over 1,400 points throughout her career. She is still the all-time leader in steals for the program. Both parents have had a significant influence on Reed’s basketball journey, with his father’s jersey number 15 being a nod to his legacy.
After a stellar freshman season, Sheppard declared for the 2024 NBA draft, where he was selected by the Houston Rockets with the third overall pick. The Rockets were drawn to Reed’s incredible shooting ability, which he showcased during his season at Kentucky.
As a rookie in the NBA, Reed Sheppard faced stiff competition for playing time on a talented Rockets roster. He averaged 3.3 points, 1.2 assists, and 11.6 minutes per game, but his playing time dwindled as the season progressed. To get Sheppard more experience and playing time, the Rockets assigned him to their G-League affiliate, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, in early January 2025.
Reed Sheppard had an incredible 49-point game in his G League debut with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. He shot 17 of 33 from the floor, including 8 of 19 three-pointers, and also added six assistsp, five rebounds, and three steals to his impressive performance. This impressive showing was part of a three-game stretch where he averaged 30.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 8.0 assists, 2.7 steals, and 5.0 three-pointers, earning him NBA G League Player of the Week honors.
Sheppard’s time in the G-League has been beneficial, allowing him to develop his skills and gain confidence in a more prominent role. The rookie is headed to the 2025 NBA Rising Stars game. Where he will represent on Team G-League in San Francisco as part of the NBA All-Star weekend festivities. With his talent, work ethic, and dedication, Reed Sheppard is poised for a bright future in the NBA.
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