After a very disappointing game Sunday night against the Gonzaga Bulldogs, the Cats and BBN are left frustrated in their performance in big games. Earlier this season I asked Jacob Toppin what this team needed more of to not get off to such slow starts, he replied that the team needed to play with “energy” and “be better” at tip off. They were anything but energetic or good at the start of Sunday’s game, getting in a double digit deficit early and never clawing their way back into the game. Shots were not falling, the offense looked lethargic, and the defense was getting beat on what seemed to be every trip. The Cats looked shocked from the tip, and it never looked good after that.
In the two games against tougher opponents, Kentucky has not shot the ball well at all. As a team, they are shooting 26 percent from deep and under 39 percent from the field. The two scorers, Reeves and Fredrick have struggled in those big games, finishing with a measly 23 points total in those two games.
Besides Oscar, the post offense has also been non-existent. Livingston has one point total against Michigan State and Gonzaga, while Collins has two. As a team, they are -15 in rebound margin as well.
Cason Wallace has played decently well for a freshman, having 14 points per game and adding a staggering total of 12 steals as well. The freshman has shown great instincts and drive against veteran opponents. Oscar has been his usual great self as well, having at least 20 in both games, while hauling in a total of 33 rebounds. Oscar has outplayed his opponents, but does seem to not know his role in offensive play calls.
In summation of these two games, the offense has looked poor and there is a lot more work that needs to be done. The expectations were high for this team, and they still are. Remember, it is only November. There is still a lot of time left for Kentucky to get better and make a tournament run, but fans are feeling low after such an underwhelming start to the season. Hopefully the extra practice time in December will allow the team to get back on track in time for conference play.
It could be worse, we could be Louisville, who are now 0-4 on the season.
