Despite move to Arkansas, former Kentucky player Tyler Ulis turns into head coach for La Familia Tournament

Former Kentucky Wildcats player Tyler Ulis is now a part of coach John Calipari’s coaching staff, working in an assistant capacity for Arkansas. However, until Ulis finishes school, he gets to be the head coach of La Familia, the Wildcats’ alumni team in The Basketball Tournament (TBT).

“I have a Kentucky jersey tatted on my back, so I wouldn’t do that if it wasn’t something that I’m in for life,” Ulis said about the unique coaching opportniity at Kentucky. “Being there and playing there, all the love the fans have given me, it’s really great. It’s been a dream come true, and we had a lot of fun there,” he followed.

The name La Familia is an ode to John Calipari by the squad of returning players who will be led by Eric Bledsoe. Brennan Canada, Daniel Orton, Eric Bledsoe, James Young, Nate Sestina, Kerem Kanter, Kellan Grady and Willie Cauley-Stein make up the frontline players.

Apart from Tyler Ulis, Shanndale Walton, Sean Woods, Jon Hood and Jazz Ferguson will be part of the assistant coaching crew for the 2-seeded team in TBT.

Moreover, plenty of other former Kentucky names also join as general managers and content representatives.

Tyler Ulis' Wildcats journey as a player

Tyler Ulis joined the Wildcats in 2014 and quickly gained respect in the program for his contributions beyond the stat line. Even though he garnered 20+ minutes in his freshman year, he attempted less than five shots during the season. With that, he posted an average of 5.6 points, 3.6 assists and 1 steal on 40.2% shooting and 42.9% from beyond the arc.

His best game came late in December during a rivalry game against Lousiville, where he posted a season-high 14 points to earn the MVP of the game.

Showing glimpses of having the necessary tools to become a standout player, Ulis broke out in his sophomore season. He was one of the top players entering the 2015-16 season and found a starting spot in the Wildcats’ roster. He recorded 18 points, 8 assists and 0 turnovers against Duke, the defending champions in the first week.

Tyler Ulis embarked on steady scoring bursts, spearheading the Wildcats offense. He tripled his output with averages of 17.3 points, 7 assists and 1.5 steals while shooting 43.4% from the field.

As a result, Ulis won the SEC Player of the Year and SEC Defensive Player of the Year award, the first player since Anthony Davis to do so. Moreover, he was recognized as an All-American and garnered plenty all-team honors.