Vicky Graff Photo
What has happened to Kentucky basketball?
Following their 98-84 loss at No. 25 Ole Miss, the No. 14 Wildcats have now lost four of their last five games – with two of those losses coming against unranked teams.
Mark Pope’s team has been without Lamont Butler for a few games now and his absence has sprouted serious issues at both ends of the court.
Kentucky can barely get the ball up the court on offense and when they do, it’s nearly impossible for the Wildcats to get in the lane or create an open shot.
On defense, they can’t stay in front of the ball on most possessions which is leading to teams having wide-open shots early on in games to build unwarranted momentum.
Kentucky’s defensive “efforts” have allowed opposing teams to score an average of 87 points over their last five games, with a trend downward in their last two outings.
It’s a clear problem that Pope and his staff can’t seem to find a solution to. Add in the team’s poor body language when things don’t go their way and it’s hard to watch for two and a half hours.
Coming into the season, fans would have been thrilled to know their Wildcats had several wins over Top-15 teams. However, that terrific start early on may have ruined any realistic expectations Big Blue Nation had.
Kentucky returns home to host South Carolina on Saturday in a game where both teams will be desperate. The Wildcats need to start winning conference games to avoid a play-in game in the SEC Tournament while the Gamecocks (0-9) just need to win a league game.
Tip-off on Saturday is scheduled for Noon ET with coverage on ESPN2.
Kentucky-Ole Miss Basketball
Photos by Vicky Graff
3 Responses
Disgraceful when there is no real effort, no focus, no energy. Totally disgraceful!
If Butler’s only or main problem is the shoulder you would think that may be a shot in that would allow him to play. It has been done in many sports for a long time. You really have to question the commitment these guys have made to the University. Apparently they didn’t get the memo that it should include high energy, fight, and strong desire to win at all costs. How can Almanor play for 15 mins. and not take a shot and how can Garrison, with all that height and athleticism, be satisfied with being a non factor for most games. He has got to be one of the biggest underachievers on the team.
Got to agree with you in all counts. I rally likes a Garrison earlier in the season, but he has not done much lately.
I like your “memo”’comment 👍