Lexington, KY — Former Kentucky star DeAndre Liggins has had his share of unforgettable moments on the basketball court, but when asked to name the pinnacle of his time with the Kentucky Wildcats, his answer came swiftly and with a smile: “That shot against North Carolina in the NCAA Tournament — nothing compares.”
The iconic play he’s referring to came during the 2011 NCAA Tournament, when the Wildcats faced the North Carolina Tar Heels in the Elite Eight. With the game hanging in the balance and the pressure at its peak, Liggins stepped up and drained a clutch three-pointer that sealed the victory for Kentucky, punching their ticket to the Final Four for the first time since 1998.
“That shot meant everything,” Liggins said in a recent interview. “It wasn’t just about me. It was for Coach Cal, my teammates, and Big Blue Nation. We worked so hard to get there, and to be the guy to hit that shot — man, that was a dream.”
Liggins’ time at Kentucky was defined by gritty defense, fearless energy, and a willingness to do whatever it took to win. But that moment against UNC became his defining highlight. Fans still fondly remember Liggins holding his follow-through as the shot splashed through the net, followed by a roar that echoed through Kentucky basketball history.
“DeAndre Liggins embodied toughness,” former UK coach John Calipari once said. “He was willing to guard the best player every night, and he stepped up when we needed him most.”
Though he went on to have a professional career in the NBA and overseas, Liggins continues to be celebrated by Kentucky fans for his unwavering heart and his dedication to the program. His signature shot remains one of the most replayed moments in UK tournament history and serves as a symbol of Wildcat resilience.
Today, Liggins is active in player development and community outreach, using his platform to mentor young athletes and give back to the Lexington community.
As he put it, “Wearing that Kentucky jersey taught me how to fight, how to lead, and how to believe. That shot — that moment — will always live in my heart.”
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