Sign of Things to Come?
If Monday night’s tilt vs. Miami of Ohio was any indication, year one under John Calipari is going to be one hell of a ride for Kentucky basketball.
In his official debut, John Wall hit a buzzer beating fadeaway jumper to hold off the Redhawks in an electric 72-70 victory that featured 6 ties and 8 lead changes. The Cats had to come back from as many as 18 to pull it off, while Miami refused to go away, hitting 15-26 from behind the 3-point arc.
Here is our quick take:
Shooting - As advertised, UK will definitely struggle to hit outside shots. Dodson is a capable long distance shooter, while Harrellson will hit them in limited opportunities. No one else looks like a consistent threat.
Bledsoe and Wall - Yes, this is the most athletic guard tandem in recent memory, but it’s clear that their chemistry has a way to go. Who is the primary ballhandler? What are their roles? How can they coexist? These questions will need to be answered for Kentucky to have a successful season.
Defense - UK gave up too many open looks from long range and Miami capitalized, but we think it’s only a matter of time before this long, scrappy group will cause defensive havoc in the half court set. Good luck getting a shot off in the low post.
Tempo - As can be expected from a young team, there were a lot of turnovers and occasional confusion throughout the contest. Kentucky’s guards forced too many drives into the teeth of Miami’s zone and failed to get it inside often enough when the bigs were feeling it. Generally, the team looked out of control at times.
Miami - It’s too early to say, but the opposition last night looked like a team that could win the MAC this season. Their quickness and shooting ability can keep them in the game with just about anyone.
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