He might not be making shots but CJ Fredrick does other things to help UK. (Vicky Graff Photo)
Coaches always have their own perspective on how a team is playing and they also have a definite spin they want to put on that play that might not be totally accurate.
That’s why I always enjoy what TV analysts have to say during a college basketball game and I thought SEC Network analyst Dane Bradshaw had some really interesting thoughts Tuesday when Kentucky won at Mississippi.
— On Kentucky’s defensive play: “Missed communication, poor positioning. Kentucky just gives up easy shots. They just leave shooters open. Time and time again the Wildcats are a second late, not communicating or just in the wrong spot (on defense).”
— On Jacob Toppin’s offensive play: “Toppin is not as good going to the rim. He is better on that one-step pull-up shot. Forcing the issue is not his game. He’s just so much better at that midrange jumper than trying to force his way to the rim. And when the defense backs off Toppin, you can’t have him being the post entry passer. Get Toppin out of the way from Oscar (Tshiebwe) so he can cut off the double team and get the ball.
— On CJ Fredrick not making shots like he was expected to this season: “They have got to continue to nurture Fredrick. This is a guy you have to show (game) clips to and show him how much he is doing for the team. He’s one of their better screeners, defenders and leaders. He can’t get his head down and forget all the good things he is bringing to this team.”
— On making the NCAA Tournament: “They have got to make great strides on the defensive end to have a chance to make a run in the NCAA Tournament or to maybe even get there. It has been a roller coaster. At times you felt they have things fixed and then they get exposed more. But it is just not ball screens. It has been off the ball, too. There is just too much guesswork happening right now.”
