Ansley Almonor has had Great Experience at Kentucky

Vicky Graff Photo

I can still remember when Ansley Almonor confirmed he was transferring from Fairleigh Dickinson to Kentucky for his final collegiate season and how excited he was and how quickly he responded when I reached out to him.

Not only did we set up a phone interview, but he even came on WLAP Sunday Morning Sports Talk.

Now he’ll be playing his final game in Rupp Arena tonight when Kentucky hosts LSU in what is a must-win game to keep alive hopes of not having to play the first day of the Southeastern Conference Tournament.

Almonor still remembers how “crazy” it was when he committed to Kentucky.

“That’s when I knew it was just different here,” Almonor said Monday.

Almonor has been a big part of some special wins this season but his production has dropped off a bit recently. However, for UK to have postseason success the Cats will need his 3-point productivity coming off the bench.

“I feel like I’ve just improved in every aspect. I feel like the coaches here really focus on skill development,” Almonor said. “And not only just skills, even mentally getting better — like IQ and stuff like that. Playing games always get you better. Nothing replicates playing games, especially playing in the best league in the country.

“It definitely got me so much better, more physical, aggressive. I’ve gotten better at almost every aspect of the game.”

Kentucky coach Mark Pope could probably use Almonor in his recruiting pitch to others, especially players that will be in the transfer portal after this season ends.

“The payoff is going to be something you can’t even comprehend,” Almonor said. “At this point last year, I wouldn’t be able to even comprehend that I was here and what I’ve gone through so far.

“Obviously, it’s the biggest college basketball program in the country. It’s the mecca of college basketball and you’re gonna play for the best fans. It’s just a great experience, and if you have this opportunity, I would take it for sure.”

Almonor thought he understood what Kentucky fans were like. He soon found out BBN treated the basketball team like a pro team.

“People try to tell you before you come, but when you’re in it, you really see it. They take it very seriously. Nothing is taken lightly out here,” he said. “These fans, they’re the best in the world. The whole state is behind us and they love us and support us. So many fans, so many genuine people that just really want to see us do great. They have our back. It’s just been a great experience.”

Almonor admitted his time at Kentucky had been a “blur” and now it is time for his final home game.

“I’m just so grateful and thankful for the opportunity to be able to play here, play for this prestigious program. I can’t wait to go out there one more time,” he said Monday.