DJ Wagner (Vicky Graff Photo)
I was hoping to analyze the post game press conference here Wednesday after Kentucky beat Germany but somehow by the time I found how to get to it … it was over.
A common rookie mistake. So instead I will offer a few quick takes on the premiere of the 2023-2024 Wildcats.
— Adou Thiero does not look like the same player from last year. In fact, if you took the name off the back of the jersey and looked from behind you would recognize him. He is playing with no fear (like last year) but with more control. For the game he contributed nine points, seven rebounds, threes assists, two steals and two blocks. You can “sharpie” him in on the starting line-up.
— D.J. Wagner does not play like a freshman. The height of the German team did not affect him at all. He plays with no fear and even showed he can drop a 3 if needed. He finished the game with 16 points and six assists.
— The debut of Reed Sheppard 15-2 did not disappoint. This Kentucky boy can play. The game ended with Sheppard having six assists, three rebounds and two steals and providing a highlight of the game with a assistant to Justin Edwards on an inbounds play for a dunk. Yes … an inbounds play.
In other news, here was a shoe burglary last night. The bag containing the players new USA Nike Ja 1 Hungers was found empty. It is safe to assume that there are some folks sporting some new shoes on the streets of Toronto. Luckily there was a secondary bag of shoes for the players to wear.
Tonight at 8 the Cats will tip off against Team Canada. Word has it that it will be a sell out. Let the “Go Big Blue” chants commence.
The first question to be answered will be who does Shai Gilgeous Alexander cheer for?
3 Responses
I enjoyed watching this team play. They played fast and hard. They pressed and group rebounded. Reed is a player(not just a shooter) just like his dad. DJ is as advertised. Reeves and Mitchel are the solid base these young men need. This can be a really good team. Lots to improve on but only 13 turnovers in their 1st game together is AMAZING!!!!
GO CATS !!!
I like that they played fast to take advantage of their speed and getting quick open shots. They did that last year in the preseason games, but slowed down once they started the season. The only other game I remember them playing fast was at Arkansas, and they won big time. Hope Cal doesn’t slow them down. That is exactly what Tubby used to do and it drove me crazy. More possessions means a few more turnovers don’t hurt as much; but you do have to make some shots. Playing fast makes the other team defend all three levels which opens up much more of the court for those who can shoot or put the ball on the floor.
At least against a slow German team we had multiple guys that could take their man one on one and beat them. Cal does best with a group like this that he doesn’t have to run an offense or plays for.
That he basically doesn’t need to coach.
Hopefully he turns them loose and doesn’t try coaching them.
Talented players where Cal can just roll the ball out is when he is at his best.
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