A Sea Of Blue - Kentucky Basketball: What to expect from the 2018-19 WildcatsOnline Home of the Big Blue Nation: Kentucky Wildcats Sports for the Discerning Fanhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/46621/aseaof-fav.png2018-08-07T06:30:02-04:00http://www.aseaofblue.com/rss/stream/173478012018-08-07T06:30:02-04:002018-08-07T06:30:02-04:00Comparing incoming players to past John Calipari greats
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<img alt="Reid Travis, Keldon Johnson, Ashton Hagans" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cACy4JeHloX5rAq54gTvf4oSFF4=/48x209:3293x2372/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60744439/reid_travis.1533584455.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jason Marcum - Sea of Blue</figcaption>
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<p>Breaking down which new players on the Kentucky Basketball team are most like past players. </p> <p id="o3oACX">Well, folks, John Calipari has, indeed, done it again. </p>
<p id="zb37yO">Kentucky once again brings in a loaded recruiting class, with a transfer grad student, and is poised to be a top team in the country next season, and we get to finally see them in action this week in the Bahamas. </p>
<aside id="82ixif"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Kentucky Basketball Practice Highlights in the Bahamas","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/8/7/17661554/kentucky-basketball-practice-highlights-bahamas"},{"title":"Musings: Wildcats in the Bahamas, Jon Rothstein Rankings, and the Penny Hardaway Threat","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/college-basketball/2018/8/7/17660126/uk-wildcats-bahamas-jon-rothstein-rankings-penny-hardaway"}]}'></div></aside><p id="84K6PR">But here in Kentucky, we like to compare players to other players, programs to programs, you catch my drift, right? </p>
<p id="Md6zcX">So, that’s what I’m going to do, compare every incoming player to past John Calipari coached greats. Sit back, relax, and feel free to include your personal comparisons. </p>
<h2 id="8AL7mr">
<span>Reid Travis</span> - Comparison: Julius Randle </h2>
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<img alt="NCAA Basketball: Oregon at Stanford" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/A5gfevHFKdiWJloGvrchBGfG5mc=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/11641497/usa_today_10583906.jpg">
<cite>John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
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<p id="4hf1ZW">Reid Travis is similar to Randle in a couple regards; both can get to the rim with relative ease, both dominated the boards at their respective schools, and both proved they can give you a double-double every night. </p>
<p id="HtrNcn">Travis proved last season at Stanford that he can take over a game and dominate any big man that stood in his way. In two games against the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 Draft, <span>Deandre Ayton</span>, Travis averaged 20 ppg and 10 rpg. </p>
<p id="ubXadJ">Flashback to Randle’s time at Kentucky, and he currently holds the record for double-doubles by a freshman with 24. Now, while Reid is certainly not a freshman, he can easily get 24 double-doubles this season, regardless of his minutes played. </p>
<h2 id="i1N3Xh">EJ Montgomery - Comparison: <span>Skal Labissiere</span> </h2>
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<cite>Todd Burandt - Adidas</cite>
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<p id="DhHJOl">Now calm down, I know what you’re thinking. I’m not saying that EJ will end up like Skal did at Kentucky. I have seen people compare EJ to Anthony Davis in his ability to stretch the floor as a big man, but Skal also did that in his high school days. </p>
<p id="l3ISGp">One of the reasons I am hesitant to place the Anthony Davis tag on EJ just yet is that I have not seen him be a DOMINATING shot blocker like Davis was. I hope he turns in to that in his time at Kentucky, but until then I am comparing him to Skal. They both are forwards/centers that have the ability to hit outside shots and handle the ball to a certain extent. </p>
<p id="GyDjcH">Either way, I have a feeling EJ is going to tear up the college basketball world. </p>
<h2 id="Q9McgD">Keldon Johnson - Comparison: <span>Michael Kidd-Gilchrist</span> </h2>
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<img alt="2018 McDonald’s All American Game" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/udmPWZ-M6V-_Jg1Ka6FTndoODsQ=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/11641551/939432972.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images</cite>
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<p id="OWdFKZ">Keldon Johnson is a bad, bad man. Regarded as the top draft prospect on this years Wildcats squad, KJ is a slashing, get-to-the-basket wing who wants to dunk on your face, talk to trash to you, and lock you up on defense. </p>
<p id="wFnj1l">Any guesses as to who that sounds like? </p>
<p id="O3OM1R">While MKG might not have been a huge trash talker, MKG scored his points in the paint by cutting and slashing, and then finishing with either a dunk or laying it in. Both play similarly well on defense, wanting to guard the other teams best defender, as evidenced by Keldon shutting down RJ Barrett in the closing minutes of the McDonald’s All-American game earlier in the year. </p>
<p id="7bTtMd">While Keldon is a better shooter than MKG was, both are very similar in other areas of their game and KJ well definitely have Lexington jumping come November. </p>
<h2 id="x63Dmz">Ashton Hagans - Comparison: De’Aaron Fox </h2>
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<cite>Hoop Seen</cite>
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<p id="kTl4P8">While not as fast as his predecessor, Hagans is a quick, crafty guard who can put anyone on their butt with a quick crossover. Hagans can get to the rim as he pleases and is also a gifted passer. </p>
<p id="Q8VQ1K">Both Fox and Hagans are similar in regards to both being quick guards with quick crossovers and the ability to get to the rim off of their dribbling abilities. Both Hagans and Fox are still not great shooters, but Hagans can hit the outside shot, if left open, much like Fox. I expect Hagans to crack the starting lineup. </p>
<h2 id="dGUaet">Immanuel Quickley - Comparison: <span>Brandon Knight</span> </h2>
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<cite>Adidas</cite>
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<p id="vHrNeO">Both Quickley and Knight are solid point guards who are comfortable with the ball in their hands, quick off their feet, good passers, and can hit threes. <span>Brandon Knight</span> went down as one of the best shooting point guards in Kentucky history with his ability to pop a three coming off a screen or by spotting up and nailing it. </p>
<p id="7zMide">And here’s another reason these two are both similar: they have both been underrated. Knight is not talked about as much as other UK guards like Wall, Fox, Ulis, etc. Quickley has been, sort of, the least talked about recruit of this class, with Tyler Herro and Ashton Hagans getting more of the spotlight. </p>
<h2 id="UxoaWT">Tyler Herro - Comparison: <span>Devin Booker</span> </h2>
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<cite>Kelly Kline - Under Armour</cite>
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<p id="8b0BUA">I mean, this is the comparison that we have all heard for about seven months now, right? Both Herro and Booker are methodical on the court and their movements look silky smooth. Booker and Herro are knock-down shooters with a great mid-range game. </p>
<p id="yOauVg">And much like Booker, Herro could be a major contributor coming off the bench, just speculating on who would start, and can give Kentucky that extra shooter off the bench, along with Jemarl Baker. </p>
<p id="sFL5GO">Herro could be the surprise of the season. </p>
<h2 id="m7DmKB"> </h2>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/8/7/17533658/kentucky-basketball-incoming-players-past-john-calipariIanteasley2018-08-06T12:42:51-04:002018-08-06T12:42:51-04:002018-19 Kentucky Basketball Roster Set
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<figcaption>Jason Marcum - Sea of Blue</figcaption>
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<p>An updated look at Kentucky players’ heights, weights and jersey numbers. </p> <p id="w3WLwY">With the Bahamas trip here, we’ve got an updated roster for the 2018-19 men’s basketball team. </p>
<p id="SgL08i">Everyone has picked a number, including the newcomers. Ashton Hagans will wear No. 2, Keldon Johnson will wear No. 3, Immanuel Quickley will wear No. 5, Tyler Herro will wear No. 14, Zan Payne will wear No. 21, <span>Reid Travis</span> will wear No. 22 and EJ Montgomery will wear No. 23. </p>
<p id="EprLnD">The <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/">Kentucky Wildcats</a> have a lot of versatility this year with a good mix of size. There are five players 6-6 or taller. Returning sophomore <span>Nick Richards</span> is the biggest player on the team, as he stands 6-11, 244 pounds. Last year, Richards was listed at 240 pounds in the preseason. </p>
<aside id="VmlQiw"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Kentucky vs Bahamas National Team Preview & Viewing Info","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/8/6/17626412/kentucky-basketball-bahamas-national-team-game-time-tv-online-stream"},{"title":"Kentucky Basketball: Meet your 2018-19 Wildcats","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/5/17413232/kentucky-wildcats-basketball-2018-19-wildcats"}]}'></div></aside><p id="VvYTpd">One of the most notable listings on the roster is Herro, who will give Kentucky good size as a shooting guard. He’s 6-5, 192 pounds. </p>
<p id="YrKPYr">And Johnson’s official height is listed at 6-6, which makes him more likely to see a lot of time in the backcourt, even as a wing. </p>
<p id="lCFLhw">Another notable number is 170, which is what Quade Green weighs now after being at 180 at this time last year. <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/sec-basketball/2018/6/14/17464696/nick-richards-quade-green-fat-uk-wildcats">Nick Richards may know why that is</a>. </p>
<p id="rUmTXF">Kentucky’s first game in the Bahamas is Wednesday, when the Wildcats face off against the Bahamas National Team at 7 p.m. on the SEC Network. </p>
<p id="PlbgFE"><a href="https://ukathletics.com/roster.aspx?roster=2139&path=mbball">You can see the full roster here</a>:</p>
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<p id="2mmIVG"><em><strong>*Please note that all heights and weights are unofficial; official heights and weights will be released at the start of the regular season.</strong></em></p>
<p id="EJ5ZCY"><strong>Coaching Staff: </strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="0kVP26">Head Coach: John Calipari (Clarion, 1982)</li>
<li id="nqZb3r">Associate Head Coach: Kenny Payne (Louisville, 2003)</li>
<li id="TgOJB2">Assistant Coaches: Tony Barbee (UMass, 1993)</li>
<li id="a75vjz">Joel Justus (UNC Wilmington, 2004)</li>
<li id="udkbGO">Special Asst. to the Head Coach: John Robic (Denison, 1986)</li>
<li id="jDEaou">Associate AD/Basketball Operations: Chris Woolard (UCLA, 1997)</li>
<li id="dL89Ox">Strength and Conditioning Coach: Robert Harris (Kentucky State,</li>
</ul>
<p id="I7rziU"></p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/8/6/17655656/kentucky-wildcats-basketball-2018-19-roster-setJeremy Chisenhall2018-07-23T08:10:02-04:002018-07-23T08:10:02-04:00Kentucky Basketball: What to expect from Reid Travis
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<figcaption>Jeremy Chisenhall</figcaption>
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<p>A rare known commodity suited up for the Wildcats this fall.</p> <p id="Srv51W">All of these other player preview posts have been based on scouting reports, AAU performance, and some limited college experience. </p>
<p id="0Ze2tK"><span>Reid Travis</span>, however, is entering his fifth year of college basketball. It is a little easier to know what he brings to this <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/">Kentucky Wildcats</a> team. </p>
<p id="UckuyW">But how will he fit into the puzzle with the rest of this talented roster?</p>
<p id="aNMOBW">Travis averaged 19.5 points and 8.7 rebounds for Stanford in 2017-2018 and 17.4 points and 8.9 rebounds per game the year before. He has been the ideal college post player, owning the boards and scoring around the basket consistently.</p>
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<p lang="et" dir="ltr">Reid Travis vs Oklahoma State <a href="https://t.co/fFaIO8KO6y">pic.twitter.com/fFaIO8KO6y</a></p>— Classic KY (@KY_Clips) <a href="https://twitter.com/KY_Clips/status/1016506838521696257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2018</a>
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<p id="ES84fS">At 6’8” tall, Travis is a tight-end type post player. A combination of length and strength that can overpower smaller players but utilize agility to score on traditional centers. Strong enough to defend the post but just quick enough to not get abused on pick and roll switches.</p>
<div id="88ssN4">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Uh, it's pretty hard to defend Reid Travis. He has twenty for <a href="https://twitter.com/StanfordMBB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StanfordMBB</a>. <a href="https://t.co/NjcUZhzQ1w">pic.twitter.com/NjcUZhzQ1w</a></p>— CBS Sports CBB (@CBSSportsCBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/954843091994726402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a>
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<p id="0GW4EQ">In addition to being a two time first-team All-Pac-12 selection, Travis leaves Stanford as the 16th leading scorer of all-time and No. 10 on the all-time rebounding list. He definitely made his mark in the Pac-12 during his career, and really stepped his game up against talented players like DeAndre Ayton.</p>
<div id="cvOBfv">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Reid Travis vs Arizona<br><br>Giving number one overall pick DeAndre Ayton that work. <a href="https://t.co/1Py6XNUb2Q">pic.twitter.com/1Py6XNUb2Q</a></p>— Classic KY (@KY_Clips) <a href="https://twitter.com/KY_Clips/status/1016513803691978753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2018</a>
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<p id="qcsDjx">Travis has shown that he can play bully ball when needed, and he will need to be that guy when playing alongside EJ Montgomery or Nick Richards. </p>
<p id="TGgC3x">But when <span>PJ Washington</span> is on the court, Travis will be able to stretch the court a little more and make plays off the dribble or with back-door cuts.</p>
<p id="Iq3Lhd">His versatility as a big man is what really makes him special, and that is the beauty about how he will fit with this team. I do not expect Travis to average 20 and 10 this season, but I do expect him to be the leading rebounder on this team and to get points when called upon.</p>
<div id="gzHkHM">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcome to practice, <a href="https://twitter.com/2ReidTravis2?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@2ReidTravis2</a>. <a href="https://t.co/JOoTxnJpoO">pic.twitter.com/JOoTxnJpoO</a></p>— CoachCal.com (@CoachCalDotCom) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachCalDotCom/status/1016849577528512512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2018</a>
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<p id="B2ERjS">Obviously, as the only senior on the team with real experience Travis will be the most seasoned defender on the team. You cannot underestimate the value of putting an all-conference senior defender against some of the young stars Kentucky will face in the paint this season.</p>
<p id="3VfGJa">“He’s just a natural leader,” <a href="https://www.courier-journal.com/story/sports/college/kentucky/2018/06/04/kentucky-basketball-reid-travis-graduate-transfer/669365002/">said James Clark</a>, a personal trainer and coach who worked with Travis while he was testing the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA draft</a> waters earlier this spring.” This guy is just an athlete. He’s a winner. People gravitate toward his energy. He’ll make others better just by how hard he plays. He’s not going to settle for anybody else not playing just as hard.”</p>
<aside id="KYeouP"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Kentucky Basketball: What to expect from PJ Washington in Year 2","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/20/17549822/kentucky-basketball-expect-pj-washington-year-2"},{"title":"What is the biggest recruiting need for UK in the 2019 class? ","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/21/17564464/kentucky-basketball-recruiting-need-uk-2019-class"}]}'></div></aside><p id="4fktmb">Travis is a type of player we have not seen at Kentucky in quite some time, and he’s someone former California coach Cuonzo Martin is not happy to see again in the SEC. </p>
<p id="wcQ7Ws">“You’re talking about 240 pounds. Strong, physical, tough,” <a href="https://www.kentucky.com/sports/college/kentucky-sports/uk-basketball-men/article213518224.html">said Martin</a>, now the head coach of Missouri. “And he played football in high school. Runs the floor. His strength level reminds me a lot of Jarnell Stokes, who we had at Tennessee. Just a strong, physical guy. So he puts you in the mode of Jarnell Stokes. He’ll beat you when he’s on offense and defense because he’s so physical. He plays hard. He’s one of those guys. He embraces contact and physicality.”</p>
<p id="Q7wpsQ">Perhaps the most similar style we have seen is that of <span>Patrick Patterson</span>, and that also applies to his leadership potential as the veteran on this young team.</p>
<p id="1HCkfQ">To get more excited about what Travis is bringing to Lexington this fall, check out the highlight video below from his 2017-2018 season at Stanford. He may end up being the one recruit, albeit an unconventional one, that puts this team over the top. </p>
<div id="iY6ull"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uMbokxcRSBk?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="yVvLgt">What are you expecting from Travis this coming season? </p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/23/17562194/kentucky-basketball-what-expect-reid-travisJamie Boggs2018-07-20T09:25:01-04:002018-07-20T09:25:01-04:00Kentucky Basketball: What to expect from PJ Washington in Year 2
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<img alt="Kansas State v Kentucky" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/J4-NI8jzDftq8AlhacXB6lTzFMw=/0x48:3648x2480/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60429099/936741134.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The big man is poised for a big year.</p> <p id="rgIetK"><span>PJ Washington</span>’s development in his freshman year at Kentucky was one of the most overlooked story lines of the season. </p>
<p id="AIn16c"><span>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</span>’s emergence took virtually every headline, but while everyone was looking in the back court Washington was coming into his own in the paint.</p>
<div id="TUumEv">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">PJ WASHINGTON with the SHAKE & SLAM! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MarchMadness?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarchMadness</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sweet16?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sweet16</a> <a href="https://t.co/27rvoOxFBR">pic.twitter.com/27rvoOxFBR</a></p>— NCAA March Madness (@marchmadness) <a href="https://twitter.com/marchmadness/status/977005557604167685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2018</a>
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<p id="G9TrIx">His numbers were not outstanding for the season. Washington averaged 10.8 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, shooting 52% from the floor but just 61% from the free throw line and 24% from deep.</p>
<p id="OeautO">But his averaged jumped up to 12.6 points and 7.2 rebounds per in the last 10 games. That is not too shabby considering her was the third option in the offense behind Gilgeous-Alexander and <span>Kevin Knox</span>.</p>
<p id="lBNrTN">As his production grew, so did his confidence which fed his desire to improve. He became the emotional leader on the floor and the spark to get the team going when they were in a slump.</p>
<div id="OzVzgS">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Instajam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Instajam</a> of the year? Definitely the mean mug of the year. <a href="https://twitter.com/PJWashington?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PJWashington</a> brought down this house wit this slam. <a href="https://t.co/mKB6MiSRvN">pic.twitter.com/mKB6MiSRvN</a></p>— Kentucky Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KentuckyMBB/status/972596263496699904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a>
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<p id="xmAoLB">There is a lot to be excited about for Washington this season. During the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/a/march-madness-2018-ncaa-tournament">NCAA Tournament</a>, it seemed like he finally figured out he could own the boards. That was playing alongside <span>Nick Richards</span> and <span>Sacha Killeya-Jones</span>, who did not live up to their potential last season. </p>
<p id="IfhpVT">Can you imagine how many rebounds Washington will pull down with <span>Reid Travis</span> beside him, eliminating the opposition’s ability to use multiple players to block out each?</p>
<aside id="HImciE"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"James Wiseman plans August visit to Kentucky","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/20/17596080/uk-basketball-recruiting-james-wiseman-visiting"},{"title":"Kentucky Basketball: What to expect from Jemarl Baker","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/19/17586142/kentucky-basketball-what-to-expect-jemarl-baker"}]}'></div></aside><p id="H9rLCw">Another area having Travis will hopefully help is getting more blocks. With Washington playing a lot of small-ball 5 late last season, he didn’t get as many chances for help-side blocks that he was getting earlier in the year. He averaged 0.8 blocks per game but only had one in his last seven games. </p>
<p id="jIwEHd">With Travis able to give UK a presence at center, that could allow for Washington to come in for more blindside blocks since he won’t be right under the basket as much on defense. </p>
<p id="IuEA6Y">Washington also has to cut down on the turnovers, as he averaged 1.9 for the season, including 2 per game in the NCAA Tournament. He showed signs of being a good ball handler and should improve greatly here with a year under his belt. </p>
<p id="iG39Cq">The biggest knock on Washington last year was his shooting, particularly from the free throw line as he went 8-20 in Kentucky’s season-ending loss to Kansas State. </p>
<p id="QHh44m">Of course, that was one area that NBA scouts wanted to see improvement in from Washington at the combine. He did not disappoint. </p>
<p id="hnGH5w">Many believed he improved his draft stock at the combine, which included an improved jumper, and could be a first-round selection.</p>
<div id="i9znBq">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">PJ Washington <br>10 pts (5-7 FG) (3-3 PnR jumpers)<br>2 rebs <br>1 stl <br>1 blk <br>20 minutes <a href="https://t.co/pHdTVCanB0">pic.twitter.com/pHdTVCanB0</a></p>— Scott Charlton (@Scott_Charlton) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scott_Charlton/status/997576301732139011?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2018</a>
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<p id="YyMrxW">However, PJ decided to return for a sophomore season with two goals in mind: 1. Winning a national title. 2. Playing himself into being a potential lottery selection.</p>
<p id="t73v8y">So what is more dangerous than a confident PJ Washington that can consistently hit jump shots (and free throws...hopefully)? A motivated PJ Washington.</p>
<p id="934jPz">Through the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA Draft</a> Combine process, he was able to received specific feedback about how to prepare for the NBA. With those specific goals in mind, we will see a more hard-working, consistent, aggressive bully in the paint wearing No. 25 this season.</p>
<p id="cnnmPC">Who is excited to see that?</p>
<p id="tPDZj7"></p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/20/17549822/kentucky-basketball-expect-pj-washington-year-2Jamie Boggs2018-07-19T09:05:02-04:002018-07-19T09:05:02-04:00Kentucky Basketball: What to expect from Jemarl Baker
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<img alt="NCAA Basketball: NCAA Tournament-Boise Practice" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_eDatRzo2fKcxj0YRfENknAJt00=/0x186:3401x2453/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60416037/usa_today_10704789.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>What will the redshirt freshman bring to the team this season?</p> <p id="DPh7Px">We often talk about <span>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</span> being an afterthought in the 2017 class, and that is true if you only consider the guys that played. But for the entire class, that label undoubtedly goes to four-star guard <span>Jemarl Baker</span>.</p>
<p id="PBnsbu">Baker was the No. 73 recruit nationally, and many believed he was given a scholarship to Kentucky solely due to his ability to shoot three pointers. If that was indeed the case, it is easy to see why.</p>
<div id="B074Lj">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here's a better look on Jemarl Baker<br> <a href="https://t.co/WscQWTtGm4">pic.twitter.com/WscQWTtGm4</a></p>— UK Basketball (@BBNation15) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBNation15/status/852350911133437952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2017</a>
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<p id="VydvtX">Baker can certainly light it up from behind the three point line. In reports from last year’s practices, both before his knee surgery and when he was released to shoot afterward, players raved about Baker’s accuracy. </p>
<p id="79drHY">As you can see, he does not even use a lot of rim in draining perimeter jumpers.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Still skeptical he plays this season, but I enjoy watching Jemarl Baker shoot before games. Keeps the net ripping. <a href="https://t.co/7VpeoNgnLI">pic.twitter.com/7VpeoNgnLI</a></p>— Kyle Tucker (@KyleTucker_SEC) <a href="https://twitter.com/KyleTucker_SEC/status/958499655914065920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2018</a>
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<p id="XZ9RZb">And if you don’t trust my opinion, how about Rex Chapman?</p>
<div id="bZkdih">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jemarl Baker is a shooter the likes of Derrick Miller, Dale Brown, Tony Delk & a few others. Can really stroke it. <a href="https://t.co/NaLMjT6zi4">https://t.co/NaLMjT6zi4</a></p>— Rex Chapman (@rex_rexchapman) <a href="https://twitter.com/rex_rexchapman/status/888177404824440837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2017</a>
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<p id="JdhIz4">However, I believe there is more to his game than shooting. In watching him play with kids at camps and in pick-up games, Baker is much more athletic than his reputation would suggest. </p>
<p id="HlQKOi">He can run the floor, he can get above the rim, and he sees the floor very well with the ball in his hands.</p>
<aside id="hMn0Mw"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Rex Chapman gushing over Wildcats; new practice highlights show why","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/19/17590882/kentucky-basketball-wildcats-rex-chapman-practice-highlights"}]}'></div></aside><p id="adcb3L">“He’s played at the highest level and has always succeeded. He had 30 and 38 against the Ball brothers and played on the Under Armour circuit. He gave [former Duke guard] Trevon Duval 34. He isn’t afraid of the moment,” <a href="https://247sports.com/college/kentucky/Article/Jemarl-Baker-more-than-just-a-shooter-119930725/">West Coast Elite coach Justin Downer told Catspause</a>. “He can run your team, he’s an excellent passer. He’s a supreme leader and a kid you want to root for and he’s tough as nails. He’ll be an instant fan favorite would be my guess.”</p>
<div id="ZIDyb2">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">ICYMI: Yesterday 4-Star Guard Jemarl Baker (@_jeyb3) committed to Kentucky <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnothaOne?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnothaOne</a> <a href="https://t.co/bzb1QK94Jk">pic.twitter.com/bzb1QK94Jk</a></p>— Barstool UK (@BarstoolUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarstoolUK/status/852271613462622208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2017</a>
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<p id="9V5Pb6">Baker will undoubtedly come off of the bench this season. And his playing time will largely be dictated by the performance of the rest of Kentucky’s loaded back court more than his own ability. If Tyler Herro is as good as advertised and <span>Quade Green</span> takes a step forward, I could see Baker getting very limited minutes.</p>
<p id="KdQ6hK">However, in certain situations and against specific teams, Baker’s shooting ability will get him on the court enough to show that he can do so much more. If he performs well when he gets those opportunities, then he will earn minutes and get even more opportunities.</p>
<p id="4fToUB">Even if Baker does not contribute very much this season and needs another year to develop, he has already done us all a solid by lighting up the Ball brothers.</p>
<div id="vILsB3">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jemarl Baker ( <a href="https://twitter.com/jemarlbakerjr?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jemarlbakerjr</a> ) drops 30 against Chino Hills and the Ball Brothers' (2015) <a href="https://t.co/hsblitje8i">pic.twitter.com/hsblitje8i</a></p>— Classic KY (@KY_Clips) <a href="https://twitter.com/KY_Clips/status/1007676294295900161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2018</a>
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<p id="qGcG6b">What do you think Jemarl Baker fits in with the Wildcats’ roster this season?</p>
<p id="0XxrOt"></p>
<p id="dm4AhV"></p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/19/17586142/kentucky-basketball-what-to-expect-jemarl-bakerJamie Boggs2018-07-13T08:15:01-04:002018-07-13T08:15:01-04:00Kentucky Basketball: What to expect from sophomore Nick Richards
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<figcaption>Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>He is easily one of Kentucky’s biggest question marks this season.</p> <p id="dk0ZKs"><span>Nick Richards</span> is the only returning player that started in all of Kentucky’s 37 games last season. He was not as productive as the Kentucky coaching staff expected him to be, and it showed as he was 8th on the team in minutes per game.</p>
<p id="RqnpS5">Now that he is back for year number two, he finds himself in a weird spot. With the addition of EJ Montgomery and <span>Reid Travis</span> to the roster, there is much less pressure for him to perform than last season. But there will also be less opportunity to show the improvements he has made in the off-season.</p>
<div id="ZcsFIS">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Massive Rebound Slam by Nick Richards!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBN?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kentucky?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kentucky</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wildcats?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wildcats</a> <a href="https://t.co/uaYdLGE7EJ">pic.twitter.com/uaYdLGE7EJ</a></p>— Wildcat Dunks (@WildcatDunks) <a href="https://twitter.com/WildcatDunks/status/957447585014394881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2018</a>
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<p id="XvhWja">I know, I know. “Richards only started playing organized basketball in high school” is the new “Willie Cauley-Stein used to play football.” But it is still true. </p>
<p id="Jn0Osq">Most of the players that Calipari brings to campus have been on the recruiting radar since they were in 8th grade. Nick Richards did not join a team in New Jersey until 2013. His ceiling is high, and there is every reason to believe he will be a much better player this season.</p>
<aside id="c8RSHa"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"James Wiseman reclassifying is still possible, per report","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/13/17569040/kentucky-basketball-recruiting-james-wiseman-reclassifying-possible"}]}'></div></aside><p id="ZsuW74">When Richards was at his best last year, he was hitting mid-range jumpers and living above the rim, altering shots and pulling down rebounds. But any time things did not go his way, he was quick to get down on himself and his game fell apart.</p>
<p id="tvFMd0">He has had a full off-season of working with Kenny Payne on his footwork, hand-eye coordination, and court vision. He has had another year to compete with high-level players in practice to hone his skills.</p>
<div id="zufZpF">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nice footwork by Nick Richards leads to the two hand slam. <a href="https://t.co/OJomIBNlMA">pic.twitter.com/OJomIBNlMA</a></p>— Scott Charlton (@Scott_Charlton) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scott_Charlton/status/944682937370533888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2017</a>
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<p id="WY6NAH">Instead of Willie Cauley-Stein 2.0, I think Richards will look more like a <span>Marcus Lee</span> upgrade this year. He will be improved at catching the ball in transition and securing rebounds. He will be a problem for other teams trying to shoot in the paint. And if you are setting the over-under on missed dunks at 5 this season, I am taking the under.</p>
<p id="tIHUKC">We will see a more refined Nick Richards this season, a player that is free to utilize his strengths alongside the rest of the loaded front court without having to grow into an NBA All-Star overnight. He will be much more confident and more aggressive.</p>
<div id="qJpefB">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Just toss it anywhere near the hoop, and Nick Richards will slam it home. <a href="https://t.co/aRfu3oMK8N">pic.twitter.com/aRfu3oMK8N</a></p>— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSports/status/975120213795520512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2018</a>
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<p id="xPBhyZ">I predict that Richards will improve upon his 5.1 points and 4.4 rebounds per game this season, potentially with fewer minutes on the floor (14.7 per game last year). </p>
<p id="EqZkE7">How would you feel about a taller, longer <span>Marcus Lee</span> with a jumper playing under the basket in Rupp Arena this season?</p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/13/17550136/kentucky-basketball-expect-sophomore-nick-richardsJamie Boggs2018-07-12T08:30:01-04:002018-07-12T08:30:01-04:00Kentucky Basketball: What to expect from EJ Montgomery
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7kccw6lYiG1l_TOBcPppkyzx_2A=/150x0:1770x1080/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60343193/CC7D3125_57BB_44EE_9A7D_B5BA40D31C77.0.jpeg" />
<figcaption>UK Athletics</figcaption>
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<p>Kentucky has not had a player like Montgomery in quite some time.</p> <p id="oK5Wop">Efrem Montgomery Jr. entered the McDonald’s All-American Game as one of only a handful of uncommitted players. After spending the week with the best recruits from around the country, it took him only a few days to decide he wanted to play at the University of Kentucky.</p>
<p id="YerBGs">You may have heard that EJ Montgomery talks about modeling his name after former Wildcat great Anthony Davis. That could mean a lot of things, as Davis is one of the most versatile basketball players in the world.</p>
<p id="hUUf5o">But when it comes down to it, Montgomery has modeled Davis’ game with two primary goals: </p>
<p id="eBF230">1. Own the rim on both ends of the court.</p>
<p id="DSTog6">2. Be a 6’11” guard. </p>
<div id="jIIaXE">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">EJ Montgomery ( <a href="https://twitter.com/E_Montomery?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@E_Montomery</a> ) dunks on a defender and everyone loses their mind. (2015) <a href="https://t.co/DnBUJMqanh">pic.twitter.com/DnBUJMqanh</a></p>— Classic KY (@KY_Clips) <a href="https://twitter.com/KY_Clips/status/1006701255807430657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2018</a>
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<p id="vEUvPa">Montgomery has always been tall, but he has also been focused on guard skills. He is a phenomenal ball-handler for his size, and he has court vision on the fast break is very impressive. </p>
<p id="Rmqd2v">He is also an established shooter, which is rare in college basketball for a 6’11” player but is almost essential in the NBA. He is a lefty with soft touch and he can make shots from the perimeter consistently.</p>
<div id="nBnbpn">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nasty mix of <a href="https://twitter.com/WheelerHoops?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WheelerHoops</a> star EJ Montgomery <a href="https://twitter.com/E_Montomery?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@E_Montomery</a> <a href="https://t.co/FTmyOj9YG9">pic.twitter.com/FTmyOj9YG9</a></p>— Overtime (@overtime) <a href="https://twitter.com/overtime/status/821483074189979648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2017</a>
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<p id="DVsV8n">While Anthony Davis may be his goal, his game actually looks a lot more like Chris Bosh. He can score in the post and finish around the room, but he is just as comfortable in pick and pop situations, knocking down set jumpers with ease.</p>
<div id="DJGdHH">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">EJ Montgomery in the paint <a href="https://twitter.com/E_Montomery?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@E_Montomery</a> <a href="https://t.co/Fzo6pQsnol">pic.twitter.com/Fzo6pQsnol</a></p>— Overtime (@overtime) <a href="https://twitter.com/overtime/status/892927362748338177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2017</a>
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<div id="OFsBwf">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">EJ Montgomery: 6-10 and smoooooooth. <a href="https://t.co/OiKiOJedHl">pic.twitter.com/OiKiOJedHl</a></p>— Kyle Tucker (@KyleTucker_SEC) <a href="https://twitter.com/KyleTucker_SEC/status/999099487443390464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a>
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<p id="tj8aaP">But make no mistake, he has always spent a lot of time above the rim.</p>
<div id="ufLiW4">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Call him Easy EJ Montgomery (<a href="https://twitter.com/E_Montomery?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@E_Montomery</a>) <br><br>WATCH: <a href="https://t.co/2XFV7Qb8Dm">https://t.co/2XFV7Qb8Dm</a> <a href="https://t.co/ve28DUimqB">pic.twitter.com/ve28DUimqB</a></p>— FloHoops (@FloHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/FloHoops/status/812458529449603072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2016</a>
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<div id="OF4jw3">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Yo, we threw ⬇️ at tonight’s practice. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DreamBig?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DreamBig</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/All40?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#All40</a> <a href="https://t.co/WFCzSiLaBS">pic.twitter.com/WFCzSiLaBS</a></p>— Kentucky Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KentuckyMBB/status/1016854549477363712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2018</a>
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<p id="FvwgRH">Montgomery is the prototype for an NBA stretch-4 as long as he continues to improve as a shooter. In the college game, there should be nobody that is able to both step out and guard him on the perimeter and keep him from the basket in the paint.</p>
<p id="lzhINR">When you put him in the paint alongside <span>Reid Travis</span> or <span>PJ Washington</span>, there is no defensive front court in the country that can stop that duo from getting a bucket. Montgomery’s skill-set is a perfect complement to the upperclassmen that play in the post, and their presence will free him up to score in a variety of ways.</p>
<p id="Y4yLvo">In EJ Montgomery, Kentucky is getting a big man with an extraordinary base of skills. Kenny Payne has to be excited to continue to develop him. </p>
<p id="T215eo">And since he is surrounded by talent throughout the roster, Montgomery will be able to use his time in Lexington to maximize his strengths and punish opposing defenses. Every match-up should be a mismatch for Montgomery this season.</p>
<p id="aS6Buj">Are you getting excited yet?</p>
<div id="wxC2xy">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Wheeler (GA) Five-Star Forward EJ Montgomery was impressive last week in the McDAAG! What school do you think will land EJ? <a href="https://twitter.com/E_Montomery?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@E_Montomery</a> <a href="https://t.co/z1tDMHiCPH">pic.twitter.com/z1tDMHiCPH</a></p>— SLAM HS Hoops (@SLAM_HS) <a href="https://twitter.com/SLAM_HS/status/980861659811074048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2018</a>
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<p id="u8DboO"><em><strong>Be sure to</strong></em><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/GoASoB/posts/"><em><strong> go ‘like’ our Facebook page</strong></em></a><em><strong> and</strong></em><a href="https://twitter.com/aseaofblue"><em><strong> follow our Twitter page</strong></em></a><em><strong> for the latest </strong></em><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/"><em><strong>Kentucky Wildcats</strong></em></a><em><strong> news. </strong></em></p>
<p id="TxVBsT"></p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/12/17540214/kentucky-basketball-expect-ej-montgomeryJamie Boggs2018-07-10T08:15:01-04:002018-07-10T08:15:01-04:00What to expect from Quade Green in his sophomore season
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/yhVpQUWgVFqUXUAFfiy0CfqwzVE=/279x0:3839x2373/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60313859/Quade_Immanuel_hdr_mode_1.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jeremy Chisenhall</figcaption>
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<p>What will UK get from Quade 2.0?</p> <p id="JGmoY9"><span>Quade Green</span> strolled into Lexington last summer as the obvious choice to start at point guard.</p>
<p id="e5xsKo">Much like Immanuel Quickley this year, he was an early commit that started recruiting as soon as he made his announcement. He was all-in on being a Wildcat from the get-go.</p>
<div id="vhNsJW">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The UK commits are putting pressure on Kevin Knox. They made "BBN" cookies for him at the Ronald McDonald House...<br><br>"You know what to do." <a href="https://t.co/xXOse5RsYP">pic.twitter.com/xXOse5RsYP</a></p>— KSTV (@KSTV_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/KSTV_Sports/status/846704083838914560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2017</a>
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<p id="3uizLZ">As the only McDonald’s All-American point guard coming in the 2017 class, the position was his to lose. An eye poke and a back injury later, <span>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</span> was not only the starting point guard but the most important player on the team.</p>
<aside id="M9MUhM"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Get to know Immanuel Quickley","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/10/17553030/uk-wildcats-basketball-immanuel-quickley"}]}'></div></aside><p id="9Exv0g">Perhaps the most impressive thing Green did last season was his attitude after losing his position. He stayed positive, he continued to be a vocal leader, he knocked down big shots, and he was always there to close the game.</p>
<p id="lOuz85">That is what Kentucky fans can look forward to this year.</p>
<div id="10Sd89">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Deflected pass goes right to Quade Green for a big corner 3. <a href="https://t.co/twoct3LGWL">pic.twitter.com/twoct3LGWL</a></p>— Scott Charlton (@Scott_Charlton) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scott_Charlton/status/964965619962712064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2018</a>
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<p id="HquRVC">With Ashton Hagans and Immanuel Quickley on the roster, I do not look for Green to run the point a ton. I think there is a strong chance he starts at the 2 guard position, where he spent a great deal of time last season.</p>
<p id="DXvp8L">Green is a knock down jump shooter, both from the perimeter and mid-range. He shot 38% from being the 3-point line last season.</p>
<p id="HPLoVB">With Hagans, Quickley, and Keldon Johnson penetrating, he should get some really good looks this year. The great thing is that once the defense rotates to him as a shooter, he has the court vision and passing ability to find the gaps and rack up assists.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great pass by Quade Green to Jarred Vanderbilt for the slam. <a href="https://t.co/yED9O9NBH3">pic.twitter.com/yED9O9NBH3</a></p>— Scott Charlton (@Scott_Charlton) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scott_Charlton/status/964967989455048704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2018</a>
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<p id="a4UFcG">The most important attribute that Green will bring to the table this season is his leadership. He may not be the emotional leader (<span>PJ Washington</span> and Johnson likely have a lock on that role), but he will have to be the guy to provide direction and keep everyone focused.</p>
<p id="jZKZfL">Green has to be the guy to get in <span>Nick Richards</span>’ face when he lets a ball go through his hands. He has to be the guy to slow Hagans down when he is trying to push the tempo too much. </p>
<p id="ayzddq">Green will be the coach on the floor for the <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/">Kentucky Wildcats</a> whenever he is in the game. </p>
<p id="PnccN2">When will he be in the game? I believe he has a good chance to start, but I am certain he will always be there to finish.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kentucky somehow wins!!!!!<br><br>Quade Green's coast-to-coast game winning layup is even better with Titanic music!!!! A thrilling win for <a href="https://twitter.com/KentuckyMBB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KentuckyMBB</a>!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBN?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBN</a><br><br> <a href="https://t.co/ujZ2Xr6Ony">pic.twitter.com/ujZ2Xr6Ony</a></p>— TITANIC HOOPS (@TitanicHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/TitanicHoops/status/958561348572545024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2018</a>
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<p id="cd8wY1">What are you expecting from Green in his sophomore season? </p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2018/7/10/17548876/kentucky-basketball-quade-green-expect-sophomore-seasonJamie Boggs