He left a legend—now he’ll earn a diploma. Two decades after trading the classroom for the court, a former Celtics floor general has returned not for the highlight reel but to claim a hard-fought credential. How will this capstone reshape Rajon Rondo’s next act?

Rondo arrived at the University of Kentucky in 2004 as part of a top‑15 recruiting class alongside Joe Crawford and Randolph Morris. After two standout seasons (2004–06), he declared for the 2006 NBA Draft, being selected 21st overall by the Phoenix Suns and immediately dealt to the Boston Celtics.

Upon retiring in 2022 after a 16‑year NBA career spanning 10 franchises, including championship runs with Boston in 2008 and Los Angeles in 2020, Rondo re‑enrolled at Kentucky. He joined six other Wildcats—among them former football standout Chris Westry—in pursuing their unfinished academic work under the program that covers tuition, fees, and books for post‑eligibility scholars.
This May, Rondo walked across Rupp Arena’s stage—homecourt to his college glory days—to receive a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, marking a milestone celebrated by both campus and the broader Wildcat faithful

Following his 2022 finale with the Cavaliers and his 2024 retirement announcement, Rondo enrolled in the UK’s Post-Eligibility Program through the Cawood Ledford Post-Eligibility Program. Chris Westry also returned through the program. He graduated with a degree of BA in Communication.

Beyond the ceremonial cap and gown, Rajon Rondo’s degree opens doors in sports media, coaching, or front‑office roles. The arenas where his court‑vision and leadership are as valuable off the hardwood as they were on it. As fans cheered and shared the moment across social media, Rondo’s diploma stands as proof that the game of life often offers second- and even third-chances to rewrite the final chapter.

Fans celebrate Rajon Rondo’s impressive new milestone 

“I LOVE that you walked the stage for graduation!  That’s so refreshing!  Congratulations to you on such an amazing accomplishment!” a fan wrote on X. The school announced that Rondo is among the 116 current or former UK student-athletes to graduate in their 2025 spring/summer semester.

“Good for him! I am a life long Celtics fan and it was great to have him wearing the Green. I had a BS also and it opened a lot of doors. It doesn’t matter now…I am happily and comfortably retired,” another user said.

Shaquille O’Neal, Michael Jordan, and more are some of the NBA athletes who returned to their alma mater to complete their education. “Great Job!  Terrific to have him as an alumni!” a netizen wrote. For many fans, seeing Rondo graduate felt like destiny fulfilled— a full circle moment. “Salute to Rondo! From running the point to walking the stage came full circle. Big W for the former Wildcat!” this netizen wrote.

More than 160 Wildcats students returned to Kentucky through the program that Rondo had joined. With his diploma secured, Rajon Rondo—praised as a top coaching candidate—may soon trade playsheets for play-calling.

And while this new job role is on his mind, he also had another aim in mind which is he wanted to graduate before his daughter. Perhaps that is the reason he didn’t waste much time after his retirement to get his degree. “Congress!!! 🔥 that’s how you do it!! Respect to the next NBA COACH,” this fan expressed his expectations.

Another fan wrote, “Congrats, Rondo, one of my favorite point guards of all-time.” It is inspiring and motivating for all those who have the same dream. He certainly inspired others. Koby Brea, Ansley Almonor, Andrew Carr, Lamont Butler, Kerr Kriisa, Jaxson Robinson, and Grant Darbyshire are the other basketball players who will soon join Rondo as graduates.