Cam'Ron Fletcher celebrated with teammates during UK's win over South Carolina. (SEC Photo)
No one can be surprised that freshman Cam’Ron Fletcher has put his name into the transfer portal and does not plan to be back playing for coach John Calipari next season. Fletcher made more news off the court than on it. Fletcher played in only eight games and scored 15 points, grabbed 15 rebounds, had five steals, and shot 53.8 percent from the field. Nine of his points and five of his rebounds came in UK’s season-opening win over Morehead. That got him a start the next game against Richmond when he had four points and six rebounds. The rest of the season he had two points and four rebounds.
He was visibly upset on the bench late in UK’s loss to North Carolina and was sent home by Calipari to adjust his attitude. Many did not expect him back at UK but he did return — with Calipari’s blessings — even though he was mainly a spectator after his return.
“Although this season did not go the way any of us wanted to, being a part of the Kentucky men’s basketball program has been a great experience,” Fletcher said in a release from UK. “I would like to thank all of my coaches and teammates and especially the Big Blue Nation for making my time here so special. I grew so much this season, not only on the court but as a man and I’ll be forever thankful for this opportunity.
“However, with careful thought and consideration, my family and I have decided it is in my best interest to explore other options and enter my name into the transfer portal.”
I am not sure I am convinced it was a “great experience” for Fletcher but when he did get to play against South Carolina teammates were thrilled for him.
“Cam came so far as a teammate and as a player this season,” Calipari said in UK’s statement. “He improved in all areas and I wish he would have had more opportunities to show everything he worked on.
“He matured as a person this season and I know he will have great success in whatever path he chooses. I support his decision and I will do anything to help him with his career.”
The 6-6 Fletcher was a top 50 recruit and late in the season, UK assistant coach Jai Lucas said Fletcher was “on the outside looking in” at the playing rotation but was doing extra work on the court and in the weight room.
“I think he’s understanding the game a little bit better. And that’s been the biggest thing with the team this year and the freshmen we’ve had is just getting them to understand the game a little bit better,” Lucas said.
“He’s in good shape, playing with high motor, high energy, and that’s the big thing for Cam and how he’ll be successful, just the energy and the effort he plays with. So, understanding how to put that with thinking through the game and understanding new terminology and stuff like that, he’s done a good job.”
Just not good enough to get to play at UK or stay at UK.
