Wednesday Quickies: Return of Ashton Hagans Edition

In a move that was (somewhat) surprising, Kentucky point guard Ashton Hagans announced yesterday that he will be returning to Lexington for a sophomore season.

It’s not so much that Hagans is returning—he hadn’t gained a lot of steam in the NBA mock drafts—but Hagans didn’t enter his name to test the waters, hire an agent, work out with teams, gather feedback, etc. With the new rules allowing players more opportunities to take advantage of these options, many thought Hagans would go through the process a little.

However, it appears Hagans is focused on a sophomore season at Kentucky, where he will hope to build off of an up-and-down freshman campaign for the Wildcats. On the season, Hagans averaged 7.7 points, 4.5 assists and 1.8 steals per game. His ability to create turnovers was magnificant in December and January, but began to fade a little in February and March.

He has some definite room for improvement in his game, especially in terms of ball control, three-point shooting, and finishing at the rim (where he experienced noticeable improvement through the year) as well as continuing to work on his defensive game.

The guard situation is shaping up to be a major strength for Kentucky heading into next season now. Kentucky could bring a backcourt group of sophomores Ashton Hagans and Immanuel Quickley, as well as freshman Tyrese Maxey and redshirt sophomore Jemarl Baker... assuming everyone returns. That’s a group that can make you pay on the perimeter, assuming Hagans improves his jumper, and has a lot of positional versatility.

John Calipari has to like the potential of his backcourt next season with Hagans in the fold.

Tweets of the Day

You have to love that statement.

Ashton’s coming back, but it was no surprise to see PJ announce his departure.

Quickies

PJ Washington says extra year at UK helped him prepare for NBA - Herald Leader

Hopefully PJ’s success can be a model for other similar players at UK.

PJ’s legacy shows that a second year is sometimes best - Courier Journal

Not everyone can follow that path, but several can.

Ashton Hagans aims for success in sophomore season - Courier Journal

Hagans looks to be a major piece for the Wildcats next season.

Hagans thinks Kentucky has championship potential next season - KSR

With notable improvements, Hagans has the ability to help take the Cats to the Final Four.

Five best moments from Ashton Hagans’ freshman season - KSR

The Carolina and Louisville games are all-time classics.

Crucial summer ahead for Kentucky Football passing attack - Cats Pause

The coaches are looking for consistent improvement from Terry Wilson and the young receivers.

Rick Pitino says he could revitalize St. Johns, but wants an apology first - Yahoo

Rick in the headlines again.

Crazy search leads to Mick Cronin at UCLA - Yahoo

Cronin leaves behind Cincinnati to head west.

John Wall uncertain he will play next season - ESPN

Wall is still recovering from an Achilles injury that sidelined him more than half of this season.

AD’s shirt becomes a talking point in New Orleans - ESPN

Anthony Davis wore a shirt that read “That’s All Folks” to the team’s season finale last night.

Magic Johnson stepping down from his job with Lakers - Bleacher Report

More changes coming in Los Angeles?

Dwyane Wade drops 30 in final game in Miami - Bleacher Report

What a send off for the NBA legend.