Do Not Underestimate Tre Mitchell’s Interior Defense

Vicky Graff Photo

Kentucky’s ability to defend the rim with three 7-footers out for various reasons has been a huge concern going into the season but assistant coach Orlando Antigua said Tuesday that Tre Mitchell deserves more credit for his interior defense than he’s getting.

“Obviously, everyone can see his ability to move the ball, to pass the ball, to shoot the ball. He did have three blocks in that (Georgetown) game and he’s got great timing, great anticipation,” Antigua said.

The UK assistant said while Kentucky is short-handed at center that 6-8 sophomore Adou Thiero might even need to help out inside defensively.

“Even if Adou has to play some 5, it becomes a different kind of a game for people to have to deal with,” Antigua said.

Mitchell has helped his younger teammates — UK has eight freshmen — deal with a lot of things already this season.

“He takes a quiet role with them, he doesn’t say much to them unless he has to and when he does, they listen. If they’re getting a little goofy and there are times (they should stop], he’ll tap them. Those kinds of subtle things that a veteran does. We kind of enjoy that,” Antigua said.

Mitchell’s leadership is easier because of the skills he has on the court that helps other players look better.

“He’s been great for this group as a connector and as a guy who helps facilitate,” Antigua said. “He’s got so many layers to his game. You guys are just getting a chance to see a little of that.

“His passing, his feel. We’re going to have to find opportunities for him around the basket as well. He’s a matchup problem for guys because of his ability to shoot the ball and his ability to play out in space.”