Even after his passing, a UK superfan’s ‘love for Kentucky basketball’ endures

Kentucky basketball coach Mark Pope speaks about his team’s seniors following the Wildcats’ 95-64 victory over LSU on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Rupp Arena in Lexington. By John Clay | UK Athletics

William Watson, who grew up in Webster County in western Kentucky, developed a deep passion for Kentucky Wildcats basketball. Although he spent most of his career as a dentist in Missouri, his devotion to the Cats remained strong throughout his life.

Watson’s long-standing support for UK came to an end on May 16, when he passed away at the age of 96. However, when the No. 19 Kentucky men’s basketball team faces No. 15 Missouri on Saturday, Watson’s enthusiasm for UK will still be felt at the Mizzou Arena.