(Vicky Graff Photo)
Former Kentucky All-American Jack Givens doesn’t expect freshman Cason Wallace to be back next year because of how high he is projected to go into the NBA Draft.
Wallace’s final game at UK likely was the 75-69 NCAA Tournament loss to Kansas State where he had 21 points on 9-for-11 shooting from the field, nine rebounds, four assists and two steals in 34 minutes before fouling out.
Givens knew Wallace was playing hurt — knee, ankle and back issues — against Kansas State.
“That is the thing that will get him extra kudos on the next level. He went out and I know his knee or something was really hurting him. He didn’t sit there long. He stepped up and played extremely well,” Givens said.
“I will be surprised if he is back (at UK). He played great. It was like he didn’t know what the situation was like (playing in his first NCAA tourney). He was super fun to watch. He never let up.”
Calipari praised his freshman not only for playing “beat up” but also taking over at point guard full-time the last six weeks after Sahvir Wheeler went out with injuries.
An emotional Wallace didn’t want to comment on future plans after the season-ending loss.
“I loved every moment of this year getting to know these players as men and growing a bond with them and even Coach and the staff,” he said.
4 Responses
Cason was excellent in game against k state
yes he was
Cason play a great offensive game, but his defense left much to be desired. Knowles had a better offensive game.
For a guy that had a compromised leg. He had a damn good game.