Josh Harrellson Goes Over 5,000 Points But Takes Even More Pride in His Defense

Former UK player Josh Harrellson says being able to adapt his game to different styles has enabled him to still be a productive player at age 34.

Josh Harrellson helped Kentucky reach the 2011 Final Four with upset wins over Ohio State and North Carolina before the Cats lost in the national semifinals to Connecticut.

The likable center is still playing professional basketball as he’s wrapping up his seventh season in Japan where he recently went over the 5,000-point mark

“I have been very lucky to stay healthy for the past seven seasons. It is a lot of points, that is for sure,” said the 6-11, 260-pound Harrellson, who was recruited by Billy Gillispie but flourished under John Calipari.

“Getting 5,000 points is a blessing. Thanks to all the teammates that have assisted me and all of the teams that have allowed me to play for them.”

Harrellson had 17 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks in an upset win against Ohio State and All-American Jared Sullinger in the NCAA Tournament — and what UK fan will ever forget him slamming the ball into Sullinger — before coming back with 12 points, eight rebounds and four assists in the East Region final win over North Carolina to put UK in the Final Four.

Harrellson had brief stints with several NBA teams after getting drafted in the second round and also played overseas in three other countries before finding his home in Japan.

In 58 games for Fukushima this season, he has averaged 11.6 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.2 blocks and 1.0 steals per game while playing 31.3 minutes per game. He’s a 36 percent shooter from 3 with 180 treys.

“I just play in the system to be honest. But I can adapt to any kind of system and that has been my best attribute,” Harrellson said about why he’s been able to score over 5,000 points. “However teams want me to play or need me to play, that is how I play. My game is not limited to a certain style.”