Three point shooting showed up in the 2nd half. Maxey hit one, then Quickley hit two and it became contagious. Hagans has started finishing layups and free throw shooting was excellent again by Kentucky. Oh and the officials were terrible most of the game.
Nick Richards was outstanding tonight. He came out from start to finish playing with energy...controlled energy. It was great to see because he affected everything on the interior by protecting the rim. He ended up with 19 points 6 rebounds and 3 blocks. He had a lot more altered shots which opened up rebounding lanes for other players. Great performance from the Big man, fourth in five games.
Ashton Hagans was outstanding tonight finishing at the rim and dribble penetration. It seems like his leg was healthy again. He had 16 points 7 rebounds 7 assists just a great all around game. He will have to hit some open threes against future opponents, but the second straight great performance.
Kahlil Whitney was solid tonight with 9 points and 2 steals. The help side defense is better and he seems to look more comfortable out there. He needs to be more aggressive on the offensive end of the court and should get trips to the free throw line. He'll have to make them at a consistent rate though.
Tyrese Maxey had 11 points 5 assists but 3 turnovers. He has to play more consistent with running the team. He also needs to look for his shot again against the zone and not be afraid to dribble penetrate.
Nate Sestina 5 points 4 rebounds and 4 assists a solid game for the Big man. He showed good leadership tonight though I think he passed up on some shots he should have taken.
Immanuel Quickley ignited the three point shooting hitting two in a row in the second half when Kentucky needed them. He had 13 points and 2 rebounds off the bench and ended up hitting 3 three point shots all in the second half. Great to have him back in the lineup.
EJ Montgomery is back and inconsistent as usual. I will say a few of his fouls were questionable. He had 7 points and 6 rebounds and 4 fouls. He hit a three pointer in the second half which I think was Big for his confidence. He'll have to be more consistent to live up to his potential this year.
Johnny Juzang did not score but had 3 rebounds. He missed an open three and 15 foot baseline jumper in the first half he should have made. He lacks confidence right now with his shot. It is hard when you've been used to starting, to come to college and have to light it up off the bench. He has to get used to this dynamic to contribute on the offensive end of the court. He has to keep shooting and keep improving on the defensive end of the court.
This team looks like it will be a good free throw shooting team as Kentucky went 16 for 18 from the line and 6 for 15 from three. Kentucky has to have better starts to the game and play the full 40 minutes like they did in the second half. They looked better tonight. Onto Sunday.
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