It’s safe to say no one on the Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball roster had a better-than-average year during the 2020-2021 season.
While this year’s NBA Draft is another so-so class, there’s still some optimism that Kentucky could return at least one of Davion Mintz, Keion Brooks and/or Olivier Sarr. Just one of them would be an excellent veteran piece to orchestrate next year’s roster around. Two or all three and Kentucky would have incredible odds of rebounding from a “lost year” and returning to their place inside the top 25.
The return of Davion Mintz would be incredible new for Kentucky. He’s also probably the most likely to do so, though it’s far from a lock. His ability to efficiently run the offense and shoot the ball from outside would fit nicely with what Kentucky has planned for next year. And talk about a veteran presence, as it would be a sixth season for Mintz (second at Kentucky).
What if Keion Brooks ended up returning for a third season at Kentucky? Talk about real continuity... it would be incredible for the Wildcats. A college basketball analyst predicted Brooks (along with BJ Boston to no avail) would indeed be back at Kentucky next year. While that prediction hasn’t been backed by Brooks yet, don’t rule out a return.
Sarr has yet to update the public on any firm decision to head to the NBA or overseas. His last update came back before senior day during the regular season, when he didn’t rule out a potential return for a fifth year of college basketball (his second in a Kentucky uniform). However, the expectation remains that his college career has come to an end.
While these three players didn’t exactly have a stellar year, there were many players across the country who played down to expectations. Bring any or all back for another season in much better circumstances and we’re looking at a very experienced Kentucky team.
Tweet of the Day
Heartbreaking end to John Petty’s 8th and final season at Bama
— Not Kentucky Sports Radio (@Not_KSR) March 29, 2021
Who played more college seasons: John Petty or Perry Ellis?
Quickies
Indiana hires Knicks assistant and former Hoosiers star Mike Woodson - CBS Sports
This seemed to come out of nowhere compared to rumored candidates.
Howard Schnellenberger, UK All-American and Athletics Hall of Famer Dies - Vaught’s Views
May an all-time legend now rest in peace.
BBNBA Player of the Week: De’Aaron Fox is reviving Sacramento - Kentucky Sports Radio
I think everyone in the Big Blue Nation misses De’Aaron Fox.
11-seed UCLA dominates OT to beat Alabama, advance to Elite Eight - ESPN
How does a great three-point shooting team like Alabama miss over half their free throws?
Not all SEC schools make coaches available to media like Stoops does - Vaught’s Views
You could say we sometimes take Stoops’ media availability for granted.
No. 1 Michigan rolls No. 4 Florida State to reach Elite Eight - USA Today
This game was surprisingly not competitive.
NFL Mock Draft: 49ers, Dolphins & Eagles shake up the top 10 order - CBS Sports
What is the over/under on quarterbacks taken in the top 15?
Saints’ Alvin Kamara among players displeased with likely 17-game NFL schedule - ESPN
But doesn’t more games = more pay?