The future of Kentucky basketball's backcourt is in good hands.
Not only are Isaiah Briscoe, Dominique Hawkins and Charles Mattews all likely returning next season, but they'll be joined by two of not only the best guard prospect, but high school players overall. That's five-star shooting guard Malik Monk and five-star point guard De'Aaron Fox, who put on a show Friday night at the Jordan Brand Classic.
They were the first two players to reach the 20-point mark as Fox finished with 23 points and five boards, while Monk chipped in 22 points. That was enough for both UK signees to take home a share of the MVP honors, which got them a chance to pose with Knicks All-Star forward Carmelo Anthony after the game.
Malik and De’Aaron named co-MVPs of the @JordanClassic. I’m so happy for those two, but I’m just as happy with how Bam and Wenyen played.
— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) April 16, 2016
.@carmeloanthony with the MVPs of the 2016 @JordanClassic: Malik Monk (West) and De'Aaron Fox (East) #NEXTvsNEXT pic.twitter.com/OoXR5zNyqt
— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) April 16, 2016
Co-MVP's Jordan Brand Classic Malik Monk and De'Aaron Fox. Future UK backcourt looking good! pic.twitter.com/vI7LWT3T6W
— Rick Cothern (@rick_cothern) April 16, 2016
Malik Monk and De'Aaron Fox are named the co-MVPs of the 2016 @JordanClassic! Replacing an elite backcourt with ... an elite backcourt.
— Kentucky Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) April 16, 2016
@KentuckyMBB @JordanClassic pic.twitter.com/gxTWrbWEJl
— Branden Hart (@BrandenHart1) April 16, 2016
Well, Cal may be worried about one thing right now, but it ain't his backcourt. That's in good hands.