12 Bernard Cote

Bernard Cote was born on July 12, 1982. A 6-foot-9 forward from St. Lambert, Quebec, Canada, he attended Champlain–St. Lambert before signing with Kentucky in November 2001. He joined the Wildcats as a member of Tubby Smith’s program and was one of the few Canadian players to wear the Kentucky uniform.

Cote played two seasons at Kentucky from 2002–03 through 2003–04, appearing in 52 games. He scored 60 career points and collected 34 rebounds while providing depth in the Wildcats’ frontcourt. After his freshman season, Kentucky publications identified him as a player expected to build on his experience, and he earned Academic All-SEC honors during his sophomore year.

Following the 2003–04 season, Cote transferred to Northwestern in search of increased playing time. Under NCAA transfer rules, he sat out the 2004–05 season before continuing his collegiate career with the Wildcats of the Big Ten.

Although his role at Kentucky was primarily as a reserve, Cote contributed to successful Wildcat teams while earning recognition for his academic achievements before completing his college career at Northwestern.