Orlando Antigua and Chin Coleman are having a positive impact behind the scenes for UK

The Kentucky Wildcats are already in the gym putting in work as they get ready for the 2021-22 season.

Everyone knew that changes had to be made after last season, and John Calipari has made those necessary changes this offseason.

A big change that has sparked new life into the basketball program was the additions of Orlando Antigua and Chin Coleman to the staff.

We know just how excited the BBN is, and hear all the praise both Antigua and Coleman get publicly, but they are having a massive impact on this program.

Jack Pilgrim of Kentucky Sports Radio released his first practice report Wednesday, where he discussed the impact that both coaches are making behind the scenes.

Pilgrim noted that last year’s team had some chemistry issues. Obviously, COVID-19 had a role to play in that, but the locker room was not a healthy one right from the start last season.

Calipari bringing in Antigua and Coleman have had a big impact in changing that and their work will do nothing but help this team and future teams.

“The additions of Orlando Antigua and Chin Coleman have been endlessly praised publicly, but behind the scenes, their work on the floor has really turned heads and their presence has helped fix things internally. One source raved about Coleman’s hands-on and detail-oriented approach in practice, actively participating in drills and keeping track of stats and reps on a daily basis. Antigua’s ability to build relationships and connect with players and staff members has always been known – it’s why Calipari brought him back to Lexington in the first place – but Coleman has made quite the impression in the team’s return to basketball activities this month.”

As for this year’s team, the chemistry around the team is much better and just has a different feel to it than last year's did.

“This time around, multiple sources were quick to tell KSR that things just feel ‘different’ with the team, all for the positive. The players genuinely enjoy being around each other and spend quality time together outside of practice and workouts, creating a better, more enjoyable atmosphere inside the facilities.”

You can check out everything Jack Pilgrim had to say about Kentucky’s early practices here.