Mike Pratt, a former University of Kentucky basketball player and a long-time radio analyst for the Wildcats, passed away on Thursday night at the age of 73. He had been diagnosed with colon cancer in 2019 and had been undergoing treatment ever since. His death was confirmed by his friend and co-host Bob Valvano on Twitter.
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A Stellar Career on the Court and on the Air
Pratt was born in Dayton, Ohio, and graduated from Meadowdale High School in 1966. He was recruited by Joe B. Hall and played for the legendary coach Adolph Rupp at UK from 1967 to 1970. He was a two-time first-team All-SEC selection and a second-team Converse All-American. He scored 1,358 points, grabbed 718 rebounds, and had 32 double-doubles in 81 games as a Wildcat. He was part of three SEC championship teams and helped UK reach the NCAA Final Four in 1968.
After his college career, Pratt was drafted by the Kentucky Colonels in the 1970 American Basketball Association draft. He played two seasons for the Colonels, averaging six points per game. He then joined Lee Rose’s coaching staff at UNC-Charlotte, where he assisted the 49ers in reaching the NCAA Final Four in 1977.
Pratt returned to Kentucky in 2001 as a radio analyst for UK basketball games, partnering with Tom Leach. He was known for his insightful and candid commentary, as well as his chemistry with Leach and Valvano. He also hosted a weekly show on ESPN Radio called “Fastbreak Friday” with Valvano. He was beloved by UK fans and respected by his peers in the media.
A Courageous Fight Against Cancer
Pratt was diagnosed with colon cancer in January 2019, according to the Lexington Herald-Leader. He underwent surgery and chemotherapy, but the cancer spread to his liver and lungs. He continued to work as a radio analyst, despite the pain and fatigue. He was optimistic and determined to beat the disease, as he told the Herald-Leader in February 2020:
“I’m not going to let this thing get me down. I’m going to fight it. I’m going to do everything I can to get better. I’m going to enjoy life. I’m going to enjoy my family. I’m going to enjoy my job. I’m going to enjoy my friends. I’m going to enjoy everything I can.”
Pratt’s condition worsened in the past few months, and he was hospitalized several times. He missed some UK games due to his health issues, but he still tried to stay involved and connected with his listeners and colleagues. He made his last appearance on “Fastbreak Friday” on June 11, 2021, where he shared his thoughts on the NBA playoffs and the UK basketball team.
Pratt died on June 17, 2021, surrounded by his family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Susan, his son, Michael, his daughter, Kelly, and his grandchildren.
A Legacy of Excellence and Friendship
Pratt’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolences from the UK community and beyond. Many former and current UK players, coaches, and staff expressed their sadness and appreciation for Pratt’s contributions to the program and the sport. Many media members and fans also shared their memories and admiration for Pratt’s professionalism and personality.
Pratt will be remembered as one of the best players and broadcasters in UK history, as well as a loyal friend and a fierce competitor. He left a lasting impact on the lives of many people who knew him and listened to him. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.
