54 Melvin Turpin

Melvin Harrison Turpin, affectionately known as “The Big Dipper,” left an indelible mark on the University of Kentucky’s storied basketball program. Born on December 28, 1960, in Lexington, Kentucky, Turpin rose to national prominence as one of the most dominant big men of his era.

Turpin attended Bryan Station High School in Lexington, where his size and skill set him apart early. Standing 6’11”, he was a towering presence on the court, leading his high school team to multiple successes and earning recognition as one of the nation’s top recruits.

In 1980, Turpin joined the University of Kentucky Wildcats, where he became a cornerstone of the program under legendary coach Joe B. Hall. As a center, Turpin showcased a unique combination of size, scoring ability, and defensive prowess that made him a fan favorite.

During his college career (1980–1984), Turpin helped lead the Wildcats to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Final Four berth in 1984. Known for his soft shooting touch and powerful inside game, he finished his collegiate career with 1,509 points and 644 rebounds. His senior season was particularly remarkable, as he averaged 15.2 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, earning All-American honors.

Turpin formed a formidable frontcourt partnership with Sam Bowie, creating one of the most dominant duos in Kentucky history, dubbed “The Twin Towers.” Their play not only elevated Kentucky basketball during the early 1980s but also solidified Turpin’s place among the program’s legends.  Though he was often overshadowed by Bowie, Turpin was named a Helms Foundation All-American in 1983.

Turpin was selected as the sixth overall pick in the 1984 NBA Draft by the Washington Bullets, one of the most talent-rich drafts in NBA history, featuring Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Charles Barkley. Turpin’s rights were immediately traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he began his professional career.

Over his five seasons in the NBA, Turpin played for the Cavaliers, Utah Jazz, and Washington Bullets. Although he showed flashes of his college dominance, his NBA career was marked by challenges with conditioning and consistency. He averaged 8.5 points and 4.6 rebounds per game over 361 career games before retiring in 1990.

After leaving basketball, Turpin faced personal struggles, including battles with his weight and mental health. Despite these challenges, he remained a beloved figure in Kentucky, where fans cherished his contributions to the Wildcats’ basketball legacy.

Tragically, Melvin Turpin passed away on July 8, 2010, at the age of 49. His death highlighted the importance of addressing mental health issues among athletes, sparking conversations about the pressures faced by professional and collegiate players.

Melvin Turpin’s legacy is one of immense talent and lasting impact. At Kentucky, he is remembered as a dominant player who helped elevate the Wildcats to national prominence during the 1980s. His contributions to the sport and his struggles off the court serve as a poignant reminder of the complexities behind the lives of athletes.

To this day, Melvin Turpin remains a cherished figure in the hearts of Kentucky basketball fans and an enduring symbol of the university’s rich basketball tradition.