TheCatsDomain.Com Message Boards: Reed Sheppard’s parents react to official offer from UK

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Posted by catmandoo (Member # 1284) on 07-11-2021, 01:32 PM:

Sheppard burst onto the scene this season as he led the state in scoring with 30.1 points per game. As of right now, he is ranked as the No. 39 overall player in the class according to Rivals.

As you all know, Reed’s parents, Jeff Sheppard and Stacey Reed Sheppard, are UK greats. Ben Roberts of the Herald-Leader spoke with them following the offer from Kentucky.

Jeff and Stacy both expected some early attention and a spotlight to be put on their son. However, they didn’t expect it this soon.

“Well, it was kind of an overwhelming moment,” said Reed’s mother, one of the greatest UK women’s players ever. “We weren’t sure what Kentucky was thinking, because they hadn’t gotten to watch him. But we were excited. As a family, we were excited for Reed. I don’t know, it was just a surreal moment.”

Despite the famous last name, both Stacy and Jeff Sheppard were up front with the Kentucky coaching staff. They didn’t want any favors just because of the name.

Reed’s official offer came after Calipari, Orlando Antigua, Chin Coleman, and Jai Lucas were in attendance Friday night when Sheppard erupted in the first half going for 23-points and knocking down 5 three-pointers. Later that night, Calipari called and offered a scholarship.

“It was really exciting,” said Jeff Sheppard. “Reed has lived in Kentucky his whole life and understands the excitement around Kentucky basketball. And to have Coach Cal call and talk to him and offer him the scholarship — it’s kind of surreal right now, you know. Even with Stacey’s background and my background — as parents, if we remove ourselves from that whole experience and just look at it for him — it’s something very special.”

29 years ago, Jeff Sheppard was in the same position just having received his scholarship offer from Kentucky. He was asked to compare that feeling to the feeling he had Friday.

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