12 Jim LeMaster

Jim LeMaster was born James Gary LeMaster on August 12, 1946.  He became a multi-sport standout at Bourbon County High School in Paris, Kentucky, where he scored 1,661 points during his schoolboy career. He averaged 24.0 points as a senior, led Bourbon County to the state tournament and earned unanimous All-State honors. LeMaster also received All-America honorable mention, played in the Kentucky-Indiana All-Star series and lettered in football, track and baseball.

A tough, fundamentally sound guard, LeMaster arrived at Kentucky known for his passing, defense and “take charge” style. He started 17 of 19 games for the freshman team, scored 287 points and averaged 15.1 per game while sharing the backcourt with Bob Tallent. His inspired play earned him the Jaycees Freshman Leadership Award.

LeMaster provided backcourt depth for Adolph Rupp’s 1965–66 “Rupp’s Runts,” who won the SEC championship and advanced to the NCAA title game. His most productive varsity season came in 1966–67, when he appeared in 17 games, made two starts and averaged 2.7 points and 2.1 rebounds while shooting 51.7 percent from the field. He later helped Kentucky capture another SEC championship and reach the 1968 NCAA Mideast Regional final. While at UK, LeMaster studied history and belonged to Kappa Alpha.

After basketball, LeMaster entered public service and represented Kentucky’s 72nd House District for nearly two decades. He eventually became majority floor leader in the Kentucky House of Representatives, extending the leadership and dependability he displayed as a Wildcat into a distinguished career serving his home state.