Jack Givens anticipated Sahvir Wheeler would adjust like he did

Former UK All-American Jack Givens understood why Sahvir Wheeler was disappointed when he lost his starting job. (Vicky Graff Photo)

Former UK All-American Jack Givens, the 1978 Final Four MVP, sometimes can be extremely passionate when talking about coach John Calipari’s team on the UK Radio Network.

One of those times came after UK won at Vanderbilt and senior point guard Sahvir Wheeler contributed five assists, four points, one steal and one rebound in 22 minutes of play after barely playing in the three previous games.

“One thing about Sahvir is he is a very emotional player,” Givens said. “His body language just had not been great since the change in the lineup.”

Wheeler did not start or play at Tennessee because he was injured and UK won. The Cats won the next three games with Wheeler not having a significant role.

Givens said he didn’t blame Wheeler for his disappointment over losing his job.

“He has been a starter and integral part of everything Kentucky has done since he got here,” Givens said. “Coach Cal saw the team could be better with a change (in the lineup) and it is up to the player to make the adjustment.

“He just has to adjust. It is that plain and simple. He did that tonight (at Vanderbilt) and did a great job running the show and that’s what he needs to keep doing.”

He played 14 minutes in the Kansas loss and went 1-for-2 from the field and had one rebound. He did not have a turnover or assist.

Wheeler came back with nine assists, four rebounds and four points in UK’s win at Ole Miss and played 33 minutes because Wallace was injured and did not play.

On the UK Radio Network postgame show, Wheeler was Givens’ guest and when Givens praised him for handling his role so well, Wheeler told him it was not that hard.

“I just do what our team needs and that’s what I did. Everybody here is good. If other guys are playing better and we are winning, I get that,” Wheeler said.