Kentucky Kernel: November 23, 2020

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Monday, November 23, 2020

sports

Who is Kyra Elzy?

By Braden Ramsey sports@kykernel.com

Kentucky women’s basketball team underwent a massive shake up prior to this seasonas associate head coach Kyra Elzy was named interim head coach following stalwart Matthew Mitchell’s resignation and retirement.

Elzy has been around the Wildcat program for a long time, and at the division one level in some capacity for the previous two decades. She may not have any prior head coaching experience, but her knowledge of Coach Mitchell’s

style and relationships with key players is invaluable in a situation such as this.

Elzy is a Kentucky native. Born in LaGrange, she played at Oldham County High School and was an absolute superstar for the Lady Colonels, captaining them to four district championships, two regional titles and a state semifinal appearance in her high school career. Her dominance earned her a scholarship from Tennessee.

Under legendary coach Pat Summit’s tutelage, Elzy won back-to-back national championships (1997,1998) and made another title game appear-

ance (2000) across her 126 games in orange. When she took the floor against Austin-Peay to open her freshman campaign in 19961997, she became just the fifth Lady Vol to start in her first-ever game. A two-time All-SEC Academic Team member, she was the first UT women’s player ever to earn a master’s degree while taking the court night after night.

Elzy’s calling card is on the recruiting trail; she pioneered Kansas’s first top-20 class in 2007, and notched three straight top10 groups in her 20082012 stint in Lexington.

See ELZY on page 18

MICHAEL CLUBB | STAFF Kyra Elzy, third from left in back row, poses with the UK women’s basketball team during their team’s social justice march on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2020.

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Monday, November 23, 2020

sports

kentuckykernel

Men’s team hosting showcase to open season

By Kassidy Stumbo sports@kykernel.com

After a long eight months, the start of the college basketball season is just around the corner.

Fans are more anxious than usual to see their teams take the court following the cancellation of the NCAA Tournament in March because of COVID-19’s major landfall in the U.S. Though the pre-season No. 10 Wildcats originally planned to begin their 2020-21 schedule against Kansas in the annual Champions Classic, the season’s delay – also due to COVID – forced contingency plans into action. The Cats are now starting their season with the “Bluegrass Showcase”: a four-team bubble at Rupp Arena featuring Detroit, Richmond and Morehead State.

Kentucky’s contests will take place in a five-day span (Nov. 25-29), and ultimately lead into its matchup with the aforementioned Jayhawks on December 1st.

The decision to host the bubble with teams from lower-level conferences comes after Kentucky head coach John Calipari emphasized the importance of helping mid-major squads during this strange season.

“We have to make

Editor-in-chief: Natalie Parks editor@kykernel.com Managing editor: Michael Clubb editor@kykernel.com News/features editor: Lauren Campbell news@kykernel.com

sure that we’re taking care of some of the smaller schools,” he said on a March Madness 365 podcast with the NCAA’s Andy Katz. “[They’re] missing out on buy games, [which] could end their program.”

Here’s what Big Blue Nation can expect from each of the Cats’ first three opponents: Morehead State The Wildcats are 10-0 all-time in matchups with the in-state Eagles, beating them 92-67 in their last meeting at Rupp Arena in 2017. Morehead State finished 13-9 (7-11 OVC) last year, winning only two home games along the way.

The Eagles lost their powerful senior guard duo of Jordan Walker and Dijmon Henson, who were the only players to average double figures in 2019. Now-sophomore Tyzhaun Claude, who averaged a team-leading 9.5 points and 6.4 rebounds per game while shooting 59.0% from the field last season, will now hold a leadership role.

Senior forward James Baker Jr. is also expected to step up in 2020-2021.

A native of Meade County, Baker Jr. played in all 32 of MSU’s games last year. As a junior, he racked up 9.1 points per game along with 4.4 re-

CONTACT

Asst. news editors: Haley Blackburn Sports editor: Braden Ramsey sports@kykernel.com Opinions editor: Sarah Michels opinions@kykernel.com Asst. Opinions editor: Gillian Stawiszynski Asst. Photo editor: Jack Weaver Designers: Mya LaCLair Ryder Noah From Social media manager: Sarah Simon-Patches KENTUCKY KERNEL OFFICES 340 McVey Hall University of Kentucky Lexington, KY 40506 STAFF FILE PHOTO Kentucky freshman forward Kevin Knox defends a pass by Morehead junior guard Adrain Hicks during the Kentucky Cares Classic charity game against Morehead State at Rupp Arena on Monday, October 30, 2017 in Lexington, Ky. Kentucky won 92 to 67.

bounds and 1.3 blocks.

The Eagles are led by head coach Preston Spradlin, who is beginning his fourth season in the driver’s seat. He served in an interim position for the majority of the 2016-17 season after former Wildcat player Sean Woods resigned from the job due

to reports of misconduct.

Spradlin worked with UK for five years as a graduate assistant and assistant director of operations before leaving to become an Eagle assistant coach in 2013.

The Cats will take on Morehead State in their season opener on November 25.

Detroit Mercy The matchup with the Titans is a special one for Coach Cal. His son, former Wildcat Brad Calipari, transferred to Detroit after spending three years with his dad in Lexington.

See HOSTING on page 18

On the cover: Kentucky sophomore guard Rhyne Howard celebrates a bucket during the University of Kentucky vs. Georgia women’s basketball senior night game on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, at Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, Kentucky. UK won 88-77. Photo by Michael Clubb | Staff Kentucky freshman forward Keion Brooks Jr. dunks the ball during the game against Auburn on Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 7366 clinching the SEC regular season title. Photo by Jordan Prather | Staff

Monday, November 23, 2020

sports

Get to know: Women’s basketball roster

By Eric Decker sports@kykernel.com

This year’s Kentucky Women’s Basketball team appears to have an excellent season on the hori-zon. The Cats are a projected top team due to their mix of young talent and veteran experience.

Here’s what you need to know about this year’s roster: OLIVIA OWENS – NO. 00 Year: Redshirt Sophomore Hometown: Albany, New York Position: Center Did not play last year due to injury; made limited appearances at Maryland in 2018.

About: Measuring a towering 6-foot-4, Owens provides unmatched height to the Wildcat roster. Owens was a five-star prospect coming out of high school, but has been unable to truly show off her abilities at the collegiate level due to injury. She hopes that changes at UK. Fun Fact: Owens scored 42 points in a single game as a senior in high school.

ROBYN BENTON – NO. 1 Year: Junior Hometown: Conyers, Georgia Position: Guard 2019-20 Stats (Auburn): • 10.1 PPG • 2.9 RPG • 1.4 APG About: An Auburn transfer, Benton only adds to Kentucky’s skilled guard play. The former five-star recruit made an immediate impact as a Tiger, earning an All-SEC Freshman nominee for her hustle and aggressive playstyle. She intends on bringing both characteristics to the floor as a Cat. Fun Fact: Benton’s brother is motivational speaker and former Tennessee Volunteer cornerback Inky Johnson.

KEKE MCKINNEY – NO. 3 Year: Senior

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MICHAEL CLUBB | STAFF Kentucky junior forward Tatyana Wyatt keeps the ball away from a defender during the Kentucky vs University of Louisville women’s basketball game on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. UK lost 67-66.

Hometown: Knoxville, Tennessee Position: Forward 2019-20 Stats: • 6.5 PPG • 4.7 RPG • 1.3 APG • 48.9% FGP About: McKinney served as a key defender and adaptable big for Kentucky last year. She led the team in blocks by a substantial margin and has great athleticism.

McKinney will take on a greater scoring

and leadership role this season.

Fun Fact: McKinney was named to 2020 SEC Service Team and majors in social work.

BLAIR GREEN – NO. 5 Year: Junior Hometown: Harlan County, Kentucky Position: Guard 2019-20 Stats: • 5.8 PPG • 2.2 RPG

• 1.0 APG About: Green is one of three Kentucky natives on this year’s roster. She was named to the 2018-19 SEC All-Freshman team and aims to earn even higher accomplishments in 2020. Green con-tributes with her shooting skill and high basketball-IQ. Fun Fact: Green not only shines on the court, but in the classroom too. She was named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll in See ROSTER W on page 7

Monday, November 23, 2020

sports ROSTER W CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

2019.

RHYNE HOWARD – NO. 10 Year: Junior Hometown: Cleveland, Tennessee Position: Guard 2019-20 Stats: • 23.4 PPG • 6.5 RPG • 2.4 APG • 43.3% FGP About: Howard’s 2020 expectations – both from pundits and herself – are sky high. After being the country’s second-highest scorer in 2019, people are excited to see what she’s capable of as a junior. The Associated Press is too; Howard become the first Kentucky women’s player to be named a Preseason All-American.

Fun Fact: In the summer of 2018, Howard competed for the USA Basketball’s U-18 team. She won a gold medal and was named tournament MVP. TREASURE HUNT – NO. 12 Year: Freshman Hometown: Chattanooga, Tennessee Position: Guard 2019-20 High School Stats: • 24.7 PPG • 5.3 RPG • 2.3 APG About: With a name as recognizable as her talent, Hunt pay huge dividends as a freshman. The highly touted recruit is another combo guard that fits perfectly in UK’s offensive system. She has a knack for scoring and will be able to dominate smaller opponents with her size and versatility.

Fun Fact: Hunt has previously shared the floor Rhyne Howard. The two played club basketball together and are excited to combine forces again.

JAZMINE MASSENGILL – NO. 13 Year: Junior Hometown: Chattanooga, Tennessee Position: Guard 2019-20 Stats (Tennessee): • 6.5 PPG • 4.7 RPG

• 4.1 APG About: The former Tennessee starter brings even more SEC experience to the Cats, which is a huge advantage in the fast-paced, physical conference. She will provide Kentucky with poise and intensity.

Fun Fact: Massengill’s high school coach was Treasure Hunt’s mother, Keisha.

TATYANA WYATT – NO. 14 Year: Senior Hometown: Columbus, Georgia Position: Forward 2019-20 Stats: • 6.3 PPG • 3.7 RPG About: Wyatt is a standout athlete with a physicality in the post few can match.

She’s not limited paint though, and is known to stretch her game beyond there.

Wyatt will play a large role her senior season and is a key to the squad’s defensive success.

Fun Fact: Wyatt won both a basketball and volleyball state championship in high school.

CHASITY PATTERSON – NO. 15 Year: Senior Hometown: Houston, Texas Position: Guard 2019-20 Stats: • 11.5 PPG • 2.2 RPG • 1.5 APG • 44.4% FGP About: Patterson transferred to UK as a junior and did not disappoint. The 5-foot5 guard was recognized as the SEC Sixth Woman of the Year by conference coaches. Patterson flashed sparks of greatness during her first year in Lexington and aims to normalize high-scoring totals.

Fun Fact: Patterson was a 3000-point scorer in high school and participated in the 2017 McDon-ald’s All-American game.

ERIN TOLLER – NO. 20 Year: Freshman Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky Position: Guard 2019-20 High School Stats: • 16. 4 PPG • 5.7 RPG

JORDAN PRATHER | STAFF Kentucky sophomore guard Blair Green looks for an open teammate during the game against Texas A&M on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2020, at Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 76-54.

• 40% FGP • 38.5% 3PFG About: Toller is a diverse scorer. She has explosive quickness, and her shooting ability prevents defenders from sitting back on their heels. Although she suffered some injuries in high school, she soared her senior year, leading her team to a 32-3 record. The talented guard is expected to have an instant effect on the court.

Fun Fact: Toller is a Psychology major.

NYAH EVERLETTER – NO. 21 Year: Freshman Hometown: Blythewood, South Carolina Position: Forward 2019-20 High School Stats: • 13.3 PPG • 11.0 RPG • 3.1 BPG About: Everletter has elite size and will help the Cats on the glass. The 6-foot-3 recruit is a lengthy rebounder that excels at pushing the ball up the court, which should

mesh perfectly with Hunt, Pat-terson and Howard.

Fun Fact: Everletter was a star volleyball player in high school, recording more than 700 kills in her career.

DRE’UNA EDWARDS – NO. 44 Year: Redshirt Sophomore Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada Position: Forward 2018-19 Stats (Utah): • 11.6 PPG • 6.7 RPG • 1.1 BPG • 54% FGP About: Forced to sit out 2019-20 because of a torn ACL, the Utah transfer should be a major inte-rior presence for the Cats. Extremely efficient, Edwards demonstrated her talents by winning the 2018-19 PAC-12 Freshman of the Year Award. She’ll try to recreate this dominance for her new squad and add some SEC accolades to her resume.

Fun Fact: Edwards has nine siblings.

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Monday, November 23, 2020

sports

Change and community key factors for women’s basketball

By Eric Decker sports@kykernel.com

Change is the only constant in life and is exactly what shocked the Kentucky Women’s basketball just 13 days before its season.

On Nov. 12, head coach Matthew Mitchell suddenly retired. The decision came amid his recovery from a traumatic brain injury suffered in the summer.

“This was a difficult decision… I know the timing is not ideal, but I do not feel I can give the job what it requires at this time,” Mitchell said via press release on Nov. 12. “I have been open about the fact that the surgery and recovery process has been life-altering… my priorities towards my family and my faith has grown even larger than before and that has led me to make this decision.”

The 13-year charismatic leader is the winningest coach in school history and was set to have arguably the most talented team of his tenure. The personal relationship he created and sustained with Rhyne Howard has proved essential to the university’s progression into a national contender once again. Now Howard, an AP Preseason First-Team All American selection, is the program’s figure head. You’d think this puts more weight on

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her shoulders, but if you asked her, she wouldn’t agree.

“I don’t really feel a reason to be pressured,” she said in a press conference on Oct. 26. “I have my teammates behind me, and we have a great team…

I got Chasity [Patterson] on the point… I got [Keke McKinney] and Olivia [Owens] and the newcomers; we got all them… they are there to lift the pressure off of me.”

“If I do get pressured, I know I can go to them or my coaches and they will make it easier for me,” she continued. “They can make sure I am staying focused.”

Despite the loss, the Cats won’t lose familiarity among their ranks. Athletic director Mitch Barnhart immediately promoted associate head coach Kyra Elzy to the interim position when the news came down.

Elzy, who played under Pat Summit at Tennessee, has been with UK for the last four years and proved crucial in recruiting of the transfer portal, luring the likes of Chasity Patterson and 2018-19 Pac-12 Freshman of the year, Dre’una Edwards, to Lexington.

“Coach Mitchell means so much to me… I owe him an enormous amount of gratitude for his guidance throughout my coaching career. This is not an easy

MICHAEL CLUBB | STAFF Players on the UK women’s basketball team celebrate during the UK vs Alabama women’s basketball game on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020, at Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, Kentucky. UK won 66-62.

day,” Elzy said in her introductory press conference on Nov. 13. “Coach Mitchell has set this program on a path for distinguished success… as interim head coach, I promise that our staff will work tirelessly to make sure the program continues to build upon the success [he] has had.”

The Wildcats have a

pretty good foundation to build upon coming off an abruptly ended season.

Before Covid-19 forced cancellations, this team had high expectations for the NCAA tournament. With the entire starting frontcourt returning and skilled prospects ready to fill the remaining backcourt voids, things have not shifted all

that much.

Forwards KeKe McKinney and Tatyanna Wyatt return as seniors with years of starting experience. If the two defensive anchors can each expand their offensive game, they’re likely to retain significant minutes.

“Last year, I was working on my consistency at

the three,” McKinney, a Knoxville native, told reporters on Oct. 26. “[I’m] still working on that, but I’m also going to try to put it on the floor, get to the cup more… also crash the boards [and finish] through contact, through the bigs… hopefully it will show.”

See KEY on page 7

Monday, November 23, 2020

sports KEY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

While the veteran stalwarts are proven ommodities, the Cats have added a number of quality options to its frontcourt. McKinney pointed out a couple new teammates in particular who have flashed in practice.

“The two people that are standing out so far for me are [Dre’una Edwards] and Nyah [Leveretter],” she said.

Edwards is a redshirt sophomore who spent her freshman season in Salt Lake City as a member of the Utah Utes. She recorded 11.6 points and 6.7 rebounds per game on 54% shooting in her debut campaign, earning Pac 12 Freshman of the Year before missing last year due to injury.

“She is doing very well, McKinney said. “She looks great; she is running great.”

Leveretter, a true freshman from Blythewood, South Carolina, looks to bring youthful to break into the rotation with youthful invigoration and energy, which she provides endlessly. “[Nyah] just never runs out of gas,” McKinney told reporters.

Olivia Owens, a former five-star recruit and Maryland Terrapin, also joined the team in the offseason.

The talented trio make the Wildcat frontcourt more well-rounded and extremely deep.

In the backcourt, Chasity Patterson should slide into the starting spot vacated by Sabrina Haines.

Patterson isn’t the same archetype – more scorer than

facilitator – but believes she can provide a boost on both ends regardless.

“We are going to need somebody that can help out Rhyne… we need more scoring overall,” she said Oct. 26. “I am ready to go on each end of the court.. [defense] is something that is going to separate me this year.”

Five-star freshman Treasure Hunt could also claim a starting position, especially if the Cats employ a three-guard lineup.

The Chattanooga, Tennessee native, who was one of the top guards in the nation, has a real chance to leave her mark early on.

Having chemistry be-

tween Hunt, Rhyne Howard and fellow newcomer Jazmine Massengill already established is another advantage for this team, according to Kentucky’s superstar.

“We know how we play, where we want to get the ball and how we want to get the ball,” Rhyne Howard said. “We know what the others are thinking before they even do it. BBN can expect buckets and hard work from the both of them.”

While some things are different for this iteration of Kentucky women’s basketball, many are the same.

The team isn’t lacking for confidence as game one ap-

proaches. Taking the court each night in honor of their

former coach could be exact the motivation needed

to push this program to new heights.

MICHAEL CLUBB | STAFF Kentucky junior forward Keke McKinney keeps the ball away from a defender during the University of Kentucky vs. South Carolina women’s basketball game on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2020, at Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, Kentucky. UK lost 67-58.

MICHAEL CLUBB | STAFF Kentucky junior guard Chasity Patterson lines up a shot during the University of Kentucky vs. Georgia women’s basketball senior night game on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, at Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, Kentucky.

JORDAN PRATHER | STAFF Kentucky head coach Matthew Mitchell claps after a play during the game against Tennessee on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2020, at Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, Kentucky.

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Monday, November 23, 2020

sports

Predictions for women’s basketball season

By Braden Ramsey, Eric Decker, Barkley Truax sports@kykernel.com

Sports writers Braden, Eric and Barkley answer questions and predict outcomes for the UK women’s basketball team’s 2020 – 2021 season.

Throughout the offseason, this team’s expectations have been extremely high. Does Matthew Mitchell’s sudden retirement alter the season’s outlook?

Barkley - It doesn’t. This is arguably the best team to come through Lexington in a long time. The talent level present can win games no matter the coach. I’m sure some players took the news harder than others, but they’ll all be ready to go come Nov. 25.

Eric - Over the long-term, no. It’s not like there was an entire staff overhaul; familiarity between coaches and players still exists, so we’re going to get the best out of these women. It impacts the first few games though. No matter how similar Elzy and Mitchell are, it’s not easy to switch head coaches this late in the offseason. Ultimately, this team will go where Rhyne Howard carries it.

Kyra Elzy has never been a head coach at the college level before, but spent her college playing career and the last 12 seasons of her coaching career in the SEC (Eight in Lexington). Do you expect any major adjustments from Coach Mitchell’s scheme and/or general philosophy now that she’s the leading lady?

Braden - Elzy revealed the team had already “installed a lot of things that we have run in the past” in her introductory presser, but also mentioned adding “more quick hitters” as the season approaches. I interpret that to mean fast-developing actions to free up shooters and slashers, which should keep the offense from being overly reliant on Rhyne Howard. She also seemed excited about the possibility of scoring in the paint, saying “unlike last year, we have post presence… we truly can play inside-out.”

So, I’d expect to see a healthy number of touches on the low block for frontcourt players. Neither of those are ‘major adjustments’ per say, but they’ll help the offense avoid sputters.

Barkley - Following Mitchell’s departure, Elzy spoke about maintaining a tough defensive philosophy and con-

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MICHAEL CLUBB | STAFF Kentucky sophomore guard Rhyne Howard drives pasta defender during the University of Kentucky vs. Georgia women’s basketball senior night game on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, at Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, Kentucky. UK won 88-77.

tinuing to recruit versatile players like her predecessor.

Since she has been an associate head coach under Mitchell for so long, I expect more of the same scheme this season.

Eric - I don’t expect any major changes. The offense ran through Rhyne Howard as a sophomore, and it will with her as a junior too. The only adjustment I could see is Chasity Patterson getting a larger piece of the pie instead of serving as the sixth-woman again.

Who do you see stepping into the Robin role alongside Rhyne Howard’s Batman?

Barkley - We saw Chasity Patterson play a huge role for Kentucky in the 19 games she suited up last season.

She was the SEC Sixth Woman of the Year and is a great scorer. Another woman who could be ‘Robin’ is freshman Treasure Hunt. She has the makings of a superstar. Any combination of those three in your backcourt is hard to rival.

Eric - It’s Patterson’s gig to lose. The former McDonald’s All-American is due for an impressive season. As Barkley mentions, don’t sleep on Hunt making a big imSee PREDICT on page 11

Monday, November 23, 2020

sports PREDICT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

pact.

Braden - With Elzy’s giddiness on the potential for paint domination, give me Dre’una Edwards. The 2018-19 Pac-12 Freshman of the Year racked up 11.6 points and 6.7 rebounds per contest at Utah, scoring in double-figures 18 times in the process. Newly eligible, she should feast underneath for the Cats. Maryland transfer Olivia Owens, a five-star recruit in the 2018 class, could also fill the void.

Speaking of Howard, she was named UK’s first AP Preseason All-American on Nov. 12, making the team unanimously. Do you think the Cats need her borderline heroic contributions to stay near the top of the country, or will increased depth allow her to take on a lesser burden?

Braden - Depth will provide Howard the luxury of conserving energy and turning up the intensity when necessary. While she’ll still post quality numbers, she won’t need to lead the team in rebounding again or take more than double the shot attempts of her next closest teammate (490; Sabrina Haines was second with 232). This squad is uber-talented, and will be able to consistently create when Howard isn’t at her best, which last year’s team couldn’t do.

Eric - The team won’t need her in the same fashion. The Cats really struggled to create a cohesive offense when she was off the floor in 2019-20. Their depth is much-improved, especially scoring terms; nobody outside of her and Chasity Patterson could really create their own bucket last season. Howard is going to be heroic either way, she shouldn’t be as heavily relied on this year.

Barkley - Kentucky needs Howard to play the best she’s ever played because nobody knows when the Cats will boast a team like this one again. She makes other players better. In that sense, she may be able to dial it down when her teammates are hot. I don’t think she’ll average as many points as she did last season due to roster depth, but her fingerprints will be on every game.

What will Kentucky’s record be? Where do they finish in the SEC? *At the time this was completed, Kentucky had only 23 of the minimum 25 games scheduled.

Braden - Outside of Depaul, the non-conference slate is not super challenging on paper. The first four SEC games on the other hand (vs. No. 14 Arkansas, at Tennessee, at No. 13 Texas A&M, vs. No. 1 South Carolina) are a gauntlet. There’s also a matchup at No. 6 Mississippi State along with return dates versus the Gamecocks and Lady Vols. Through it all, the Cats will finish 19-4 and finish no worse than third in the conference.

Eric - 18-5. This Kentucky team has a chance to be one

JORDAN PRATHER | STAFF Kentucky players huddle up during the game against Auburn on Monday, Jan. 27, 2020, at Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 68-61.

of the country’s best. It’s a shame they play in the same division as perennial power South Carolina. Basketball is incredibly volatile, and momentum is key. A couple games slipping through the cracks is inevitable. The Cats claim second in the SEC by virtue of a win in Starkville.

Barkley - 20-3. Akin to the men, I see these Cats defeating everyone they’re supposed to. They’ll lose to South Carolina twice and Mississippi State, putting them third in the conference. They could potentially make it the SEC tournament finals, but the Bulldogs and Gamecocks are just so talented year after year that it’s difficult to put the Cats in the title game.

How far does this team go in March? Are they able to make the Final Four for the first time in the program’s history?

Braden - The saddest thing about Coach Mitchell’s

retirement is that this team would have been the best of his tenure and given him his best shot at getting to the season’s final weekend. The lack of parity in the women’s game means it’s easier to avoid early upsets, but extremely difficult to advance past the Sweet Sixteen. That precludes me from definitively saying the Cats appear in the Final Four, but they have a fantastic opportunity to do so.

Eric - It all depends on who they’re matched up against.

The talent for a Final Four run is in place; there are just some terrifying matchups in the women’s game today. All it takes is one bad shooting night and you’re gone sooner than you imagined.

Barkley - This team has everything for a Final Four run.

The Cats have a fantastic backcourt and depth throughout the roster. More importantly, they have the ability to score out of the post, which they lacked in 2019. If Coach Elzy can rally the Cats on the defensive end like she plans,

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Monday, November 23, 2020

sports

Men’s basketball strives for nine ahead of 2020 - 2021 season

By Barkley Truax sports@kykernel.com

In the Big Blue Nation, three things are guaranteed: death, taxes and Kentucky basketball.

The 2019-20 season was halted abruptly due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In their final home game, UK lost to the University of Tennesee Volunteers on senior night. Shortly after, the SEC tournament was canceled. At long last, it’s once again basketball time in the Bluegrass.

Kentucky lost nearly everyone from last year’s squad to the NBA Draft: leading scorer Immanuel Quickley, rebounder Nick Richards and distributor Ashton Hagans. Top talent Tyrese Maxey is also headed to the league.

Keion Brooks Jr. and Dontaie Allen are the only returning Cats. Only Brooks, who averaged 4.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per game, saw the floor. As a result, he should take on a larger role to be-gins his sophomore campaign.

As is something of a tradition, Head coach John Calipari and staff secured another No. 1 recruiting class to replace the departed. It features five-star recruits Brandon Boston, Terrence Clarke and Devin Askew, along with four-

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stars Isaiah Jackson, Lance Ware and Cam’Ron Fletcher.

Kentucky was also active in the transfer portal for a third straight year, picking up Jacob Toppin and Davion Mintz. In addition to them, Kentucky reeled in the portal’s biggest fish in forward Olivier Sarr, who many expect to post big numbers for Cal and crew.

The roster wasn’t the only aspect of the program to change up. Long-time assistant Kenny Payne left for the New York Knicks after a decade in Lexington, forcing the twelfthyear head coach to bring in some new blood.

He started by hiring former Massachusetts assistant, James “Bruiser” Flint, and Jai Lucas. Regarded as one of the best recruiters in the business today, he notably snubbed Kentucky during his own decision process in 2007-08. Originally hired as the special assistant to the head coach and recruit-ing coordinator, he was quickly promoted to an on-court position. Tony Barbee moved into the offcourt role.

With Kentucky looking almost completely different this season, what should we expect?

The biggest question for this team is its defensive

JORDAN PRATHER | STAFF Students in the eRUPPtion Zone hold Nick Richards for All American signs during the game against Florida on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2020, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 65-59.

ability. Length and size – ten Wildcats stand 6-foot-5 or taller – should give it a chance to create turnovers, control the paint and hinder the opposi-tion’s ability to control the glass. They’re not yet where they need to be there according to Coach Cal, but in his own words, they’re getting better every day.

On the offensive end, those traits provide the ability to attack the rim, shoot over tight defense and out-rebound opponents. The Cats struggled

on the offensive boards in 2019, but should stuff the stat sheet there this season.

Kentucky will lean heavily on the production of its three potential superstars: Sarr, Boston and Clarke.

Sarr’s presence elevates this team’s ceiling to another level. Before he became eligible, experts labeled the Cats as a Sweet Sixteen; after, those same experts pegged them a Final Four contender.

Boston comes in with a prolific resume: McDon-

ald’s All-American, 2020 California Mr. Basketball; you name it, he’s done it. He is likely to be Kentucky’s primary shooting option, as was known on the high school level and AAU circuit for scoring at will.

Clarke has similar accolades to Boston: five-star with several All-American honors. He ranked as high as No. 8 in Rivals’ rankings after opting of his senior year of high school to head to Lexing-ton.

Something all three

players have in common, though, is playing well in big-time games.

At Wake Forest, Sarr dropped 25 points in a double-overtime road win over Duke; Boston led Si-erra Canyon to a 30-4 record, leading the team to a top-two national ranking; Clarke carried Brew-ster to the 2019 National Prep championship game.

Mintz and Askew, battling for the starting point guard spot, have reportedly had great one-on-one batSee SEASON on page 13

Monday, November 23, 2020

sports SEASON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

tles in practice. Isaiah Jackson has also drawn rave reviews and looked very smooth at Ken-tucky’s Pro Day last week.

Allen also showed out at the Pro Day, knocking down three-pointers with confidence. If he can shoot like that in game, expect to see him on the floor quite a bit.

Kentucky opens their season up on Nov. 25 in Rupp Arena against Morehead State in the first of three games played in their “bubble”. An interesting date with Detroit Mercy follows before a contest with Richmond.

BBN wants to look at these as warmup games for Kansas on Dec. 1, but as Evansville showed, nothing is guaranteed. The rest of Kentucky’s non-conference schedule is as hard as anyone’s in the country.

The Cats face Georgia Tech, Notre Dame, UCLA and Louisville in that order in December, and host Texas in the SEC/Big 12 Challenge on Jan. 30. The game against the Cardinals is the team’s only true road game out of conference. If you’re expecting Kentucky to enter SEC play unbeaten, you’ll probably be disappointed.

Schedule-wise, the Cats lost their game in London against Michigan, which was postponed for 2022.

Just as any young players, these Cats will make mistakes; Kentucky teams are notorious for slower starts, so it might be frus-

trating to watch at first, especially with only a couple returning players. Another factor to keep an eye out for is how the haul of a COVID-19 season takes its toll, and how limited fans will affect atmosphere. But if this team is as talented as advertised and can put all its quality pieces together, optimism will be warranted come March. Notably, the NCAA announced last weekthat any March Madness that takes place will be at a singular location. Indianapolis is in the running as host.

JORDAN PRATHER | STAFF Kentucky freshman forward Keion Brooks Jr. goes for a basket during the game against Tennessee on Tuesday, March 3, 2020, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. Tennessee won 81-73.

JORDAN PRATHER | STAFF Kentucky head coach John Calipari watches from the sideline during the game against Vanderbilt on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2020, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky.

PROVIDED PHOTO Terrence Clarke, five-star recruit, joins five other freshmen on this year’s squad. Photo by Elliott Hess | UK Athletics

fall 2020 | 11

Monday, November 23, 2020

sports

New year, new roster: Men’s basketball players

By Hunter Shelton sports@kykernel.com

If there is any group of fans used to learning an abundance of new names every basketball season, it’s Big Blue Nation.

This year is no different, as 12 players will dawn Kentucky blue on the hardwood for the first time in 2020.

Here is what you need to know about the core of the 2020-2021 Wildcat roster: JACOB TOPPIN – NO. 0 Year: Sophomore Hometown: Brooklyn, N.Y. Position: Forward 2019-20 Stats (Rhode Island) • 5.1 PPG • 3.9 RPG • 0.9 APG About: Brother of the NCAA 2020 National Player of the Year Obi Toppin, Jacob joined UK after spending his freshman season at Rhode Island. Jacob appeared in all 30 games for the Rams last season.

Fun Fact: Toppin’s pregame superstition is eating candy.

DEVIN ASKEW – NO. 2 Year: Freshman Hometown: Sacramento, Ca. Position: Guard Recruiting Rank: 26th in the 2020 class via ESPN100 2019-20 Stats (Mater Dei HS) • 16.7 PPG • 6.3 APG • 4.9 RPG About: Considered one of the top point guards in his class, Devin Askew led Mater Dei High School to the CIF Open Division Southern California Regional championship as a sophomore and his Nike Elite Youth Basketball League to the 2019 Peach Jam finals. Askew was named California Interscholastic Federation First Team and Trinity League Player of the

12 | kentucky kernel

Year as a senior.

Fun Fact: Devin plays with a $5 bill in his left sock.

BRANDON BOSTON JR. – NO. 3 Year: Freshman Hometown: Norcross, Ga. Position: Guard Recruiting Rank: 7th in the 2020 class via ESPN100 2019-20 Stats (Sierra Canyon HS) • 19.7 PPG • 7.0 RPG About: Kentucky’s top-ranked player in the class of 2020, Boston has already acquired many accolades. He led his high school Sierra Canyon to a No. 2 national ranking as a senior, was named a FirstTeam Naismith All-American, SLAM Magazine All-American, Mr. Basketball in California and was selected to the McDonald’s All-American game, among other notable achieve-ments.

Fun Fact: Boston’s favorite movie is He Got Game.

TERRENCE CLARKE – NO. 5 Year: Freshman Hometown: Boston, Ma. Position: Guard Recruiting Rank: 10th in the 2020 class via ESPN100 2019-20 Stats (Nike EYBL) • 16.2 PPG • 5.1 RPG • 3.7 APG About: Clarke also brings a laundry list of awards with him to UK: New England Preparatory School Athletic Council AAA Player of the Year, Sports Illustrated All-American Third Team and Naismith All-American Honorable Mention just scratch the surface. Clarke played for the 2019 National Prep champions Brewster Academy in high school.

Fun Fact: Terrence chose No. 5 because

JORDAN PRATHER | STAFF Kentucky freshman guard Dontaie Allen and redshirt freshman guard Zan Payne talk during the game against Vanderbilt on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2020, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 71-62.

he once forgot his No. 6 jersey before a game and had to wear No. 5; after playing well in No. 5, he’s stuck with the number ever since.

DAVION MINTZ – NO. 10 Year: Graduate Student Hometown: Charlotte, N.C. Position: Guard 2018-19 Stats (Creighton) • 9.7 PPG

• 3.0 APG • 3.0 RPG About: After battling injury for the 2019-20 season, Davion Mintz redshirted his final season as a Bluejay before transferring to UK. He started in 89 games over his three years in that program, im-proving his field goal percentage each season.

Fun Fact: Davion’s godfather is NFL Hall of Famer Randy Moss.

Monday, November 23, 2020

sports DONTAIE ALLEN – NO. 11 Year: Redshirt Freshman Hometown: Falmouth, Ky. Position: Guard 2018-19 Stats (Pendelton Co. High School, Falmouth KY) • 42.9 PPG • 14.2 RPG About: After suffering a knee injury his senior year of high school and dealing with injuries from a car crash, Allen redshirted

his first season with UK. He was named Kentucky’s Mr. Basketball as a senior, and scored 3,255 points in his high school career, which ranks 11th all-time in state history. His 1,228 rebounds are good for 22nd all-time.

Fun Fact: Allen is a cousin of NFL quarterback Russell Wilson.

KEION BROOKS JR. – NO. 12 Year: Sophomore Hometown: Fort Wayne, Ind. Position: Forward 2019-2020 Stats: • 4.5 PPG • 3.2 RPG About: Brooks is the lone returning Wildcat who saw minutes in the 20192020 season. While his box score numbers are modest, he made valuable contributions on both ends of the floor that aren’t reflected in his raw stats.

Fun Fact: Brooks wears No. 12 because it is the number his father wore in high school.

CAM’RON FLETCHER – NO. 21 Year: Freshman Hometown: Saint Louis, Mo. Position: Forward Recruiting Rank: 61st in the 2020 class via ESPN100 2019-20 Stats (Vashon HS) • 20.6 PPG • 9.8 RPG • 2.7 BPG About: Fletcher was named the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association Class Four Player of the Year, an MBCAC Class Five All-State Team selection, and two-time state champion at Vashon High School.

Fun Fact: Fletcher dunked for the first time when he was just 13.

ISAIAH JACKSON – NO. 23 Year: Freshman

On the left: UK ATHLETICS Sophomore Jacob Toppin pursued immediate eligibility amidst unusual COVID-19 circumstances after transferring from Rhode Island.

Hometown: Pontiac, Mich.

Position: Forward Recruiting Rank: 34th in the 2020 class via ESPN100 2019-20 Stats (Nike EYBL) • 11.0 PPG • 6.2 RPG • 2.7 BPG About: Jackson was a three-time AllState selection and four-time defensive player of the year in his conference in Michigan. He led his high school, Waterford Mott, to two district and two league championships. He was also a finalist for the Mr. Michigan Basketball award.

Fun Fact: Isaiah’s nickname is Zeek, and he is one of five children.

• 1.3 BPG About: Lance Ware knows how to win; his high school team lost only one game his senior sea-son. That team finished No. 1 in the final NJ.com Top 50 rankings.

Ware anchored the team, being named NJ.com Player of the Year and selected to First Team All-State for his efforts.

Fun Fact: Lance’s major is undeclared/ exploratory studies in agriculture.

OLIVIER SARR – NO. 30 Year: Senior Hometown: Bordeaux, France Position: Forward 2019-20 Stats (Wake Forest) • 13.7 PPG • 9.0 RPG • 0.9 APG • 52.7% FGP About: Rated as the number one transfer in college basketball for this upcoming season, Sarr joins Kentucky after spending three years in the ACC with the Demon Deacons. Sarr was named Third-Team AllACC and was runner-up for ACC Most Improved Player last year, recording 11 double-doubles along the way.

Fun Fact: Fishing is one of Sarr’s hobbies away from basketball. He considers his fishing rod to be his most prized possession.

LANCE WARE – NO. 55 Year: Freshman Hometown: Camden, N.J. Position: Forward Recruiting Rank: 46th in the 2020 class via ESPN100 2019-20 Stats (Nike EYBL) • 11.4 PPG • 6.0 RPG

On the right: UK ATHLETICS Olivier Sarr was cleared to play earlier in the fall of 2020 after a lengthy transfer waiver process.

fall 2020 | 13

Monday, November 23, 2020

sports

Sports desk predicts upcoming season for Cal and the Cats and do it all again in roughly 48 hours off a palate of candy and soda. This isn’t high school anymore, so that won’t work. The offseason has theoretically helped them learn the importance of quality nutrition and rest, but at the end of the day, these are mostly teenagers we’re talking about.

I don’t foresee anything serious occurring, but this opening stretch will show just how imperative the less-fun aspects of becoming great are.

Barkley - Depth. The Cats are 11-deep, with players who can come in and out at any time. As we saw in 201415, teams can’t keep up when fresh bodies are always on the floor. Don’t get me wrong; I’m not comparing the ceiling of this year’s team to that one. But the ability to switch guys without a big drop off is not a luxury many basketball teams can claim.

JORDAN PRATHER | STAFF Kentucky freshman forward Keion Brooks Jr. grabs a pass during the game against Florida on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2020.

Brooks is one of only a couple of returning players from last year’s squad.

By Braden Ramsey, Eric Decker, Barkley Truax sports@kykernel.com

Kernel sports editor Braden Ramsey, along with writers Eric Decker and Barkley Truax, offer up their thoughts on some important aspects of the Kentucky season. See what they predict for the 2020-2021 rendition of Coach Cal’s squad below:

14 | kentucky kernel

The Cats have a sprint out of the gate, with four games in seven days. What is the key to getting through those contests unscathed?

Braden - I don’t expect them to make it through with an unblemished record; but more on that later. In terms of advancing without major injuries, it’s the recovery between games. The incoming freshmen will be amped up for their debuts, trying to make every single play a spectacular one

Coach Cal tends to tinker with his starting lineup in the season’s opening stretch. Barring injury, who takes the floor for the jump of Kentucky’s first big matchup (Dec. 1st - Kansas)?

Eric - “Barring injury” is huge here. If Keion Brooks is healthy, spot him at the four. His rebounding and effort was infectious last year and he should only improve.

Brandon Boston and Terrence Clarke are going to be there.

Everything we’ve heard from inside the program indicates they’re going to be special. At point guard, I’ll keep it simple: Devin Askew is 17 years old and could be in a high school calculus class right now, while Davion Mintz is heading into his fifth year of college basketball. That should net him the start against Bill Self and the Jayhawks.

Olivier Sarr has the chance to be an all NCAA big man, so I’m not second guessing that one: Mintz, Boston, Clarke, Brooks and Sarr.

Braden - For difference’s, I’ll say Askew-BostonClarke-Jackson-Sarr. Calipari decides to send the young guys out to get their feet wet in the first few minutes before substituting at the first media timeout. Mintz-BostonClarke-Brooks-Sarr will be the lineup with the most time on the court, just not the one out there for opening tip.

Who emerges as the leader(s) of this team in the early going?

Barkley - Keion Brooks Jr. is going to be the heart and soul of this team. Being the only returning Cat with sigSee PREDICT M on page 19

Monday, November 23, 2020

sports PREDICT M CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

nificant minutes last season, Kentucky will rely heavily on him early. I can see him being an on-court coach; setting up plays, getting people where they need to be on the floor, etc. He’ll be the most experienced Kentucky basketball player on the court at any time, and I think he’ll play like it.

Eric - Much in the way of a lottery freshman, I think Olivier Sarr’s one-year legacy at Kentucky is going to be a memorable one. Toward the end of last season, he dropped 25 points and five rebounds against Duke, only to come back four days later and hang 30 and 17 on Notre Dame.

Sarr has the talent and intelligence to make this team a championship contender. If the Cats get to the promise land, it’s going to be Sarr who carried them there for the large part.

What will Kentucky’s record be? Where do they finish in the SEC? Braden - The Cats go 22-5, losing to Richmond, Louisville (ugh), at Florida, at Auburn and to either Alabama or Georgia on the road. The Spiders will come to Rupp looking to make a statement to the nation; the step-up in competition following the first two games will see the young guys bend under pressure. The Cardinals haven’t defeated Kentucky recently, but after the hassle they’ve made regarding play at a neutral site, they’ll sacrifice the games sandwiching the Wildcats to make sure they beat them. And UK always drops a handful of conference games. Florida and Auburn are tough to beat twice; Alabama and Georgia characteristically put up strong fights in their home arenas. Kentucky ends up sweeping arch-rival Tennessee for the first time since 2015 though.

If I had to name a sleeper loss, that’d come vs. Arkansas. The Cats will ultimately claim the SEC regular season title once again.

Barkley - 23-4, with the losses against Kansas, Auburn, Florida and Tennessee. Kansas will be a reality check for this young team. I think they’ll win the SEC regular season with only three losses in conference, but come up short in the SEC tournament.

Eric - It’s hard not to be optimistic about a Kentucky basketball season. Last year’s team was flawed but still won the SEC and looked the part heading into March.

Boston and Clarke both instantly fill the aforementioned void, and should do so resoundingly. The veteran presence at the point guard and center positions will stabilize the talented young core when times get tough. The blend of leadership and raw talent on this team is too perfect not to work, so I’m going 24-3. They’ll win their big four out-of-conference games (Kansas, Notre Dame, UCLA, Texas) but they’ll trip up a few nights against foes such as Auburn and Florida.

JORDAN PRATHER | STAFF Kentucky won last year’s regular season SEC championship, defeating Auburn 73 - 66 on Feb, 29. The SEC tournament was cancelled less than two weeks later due to COVID-19.

The season has yet to begin, but that doesn’t mean we can’t forecast into the games we don’t know yet. So, how far do the Cats go in March? Do they capture their elusive ninth championship?

Barkley - This team has everything needed to win a national championship. Young superstars, experienced veterans, length, depth, etc.; you name it, Kentucky has it.

Cal always has his teams ready by March. I cautiously say that Kentucky is due for a first round upset - they’ve never lost in the Round of 64 under Calipari - but if they advance from there, this team is Final Four caliber, which means it has a chance to win it all.

Eric - Predicting championships is a slippery slope; it only gives people a reason to be upset if the team falls short. But like I said, last year’s team had a real chance to bring it home despite its warts. Those should now be a thing of the past. A big man with consistent production on

the boards? Check. Length on the wing that can be productive on both ends? Check. An abundance of natural scorers that can get a bucket off the dribble? Check. This team has an absurd amount of talent available off the bench too. If Kentucky can switch people, constantly and outrun teams they’ll be in a good position to do something really special.

Braden - The only thing I’m certain of is that this year’s team represents the best chance for the Cats to win it all since the historic 2015 squad. You never know how the regions will shape up. Duke and Michigan State were Final Four picks for many analysts two seasons ago, and ended up in the same bracket portion. Because of that, I’m hesitant to make any drastic prognostications. Anything less than the Elite Eight will probably be viewed as a disappointment.

fall 2020 | 15

Monday, November 23, 2020

sports

How former Cats stand in NBA draft rankings

By Ryan Fetsch sports@kykernel.com

Every year, the NBA Draft causes all sorts of discussion on who the top pick should be used on. There has not been this much discourse over the number one spot since the rumor of Patrick Ewing and the Frozen Envelope.

With Memphis’ James Wiseman, Georgia’s Anthony Edwards and the ABL’s LaMelo Ball all proving worthy of being the first overall selection, it will make for an interesting draft night.

Although this year’s top spot will not be a Wildcat, UK is expected to have three or four players picked during the event. Here is what you should know on the top Cat prospects: Tyrese Maxey The consensus best available of Kentucky’s player pool, 19-year-old combo guard Tyrese Maxey is an expected Top-20 pick with the potential to sneak into the back end of the lottery.

Maxey is explosive; he uses this speed and athleticism to attack the paint aggressively, but with finesse and without fear.

Although he mainly operated at point guard in Lexington, he projects as more of a slashing shoot-ing guard in the league.

Teams believe he would be more successful in that niche as opposed to being the ringleader of an offense.

His three-point shooting could cause his stock to take a bit of a hit – just 29% from behind-thearc at UK– but many draft ana-

16 | kentucky kernel

lysts have said he is better there than his numbers indicate.

Either way, what he may lack in outside shooting, he makes up for with length and physicality on defense. A fast, physical guard who has the size and ability to keep up with players at the next lev-el, Maxey could turn out to be a mid-first round steal for whichever team he falls to.

CBS: Round 1/Pick 19Brooklyn Nets ESPN: Round 1/Pick 12- San Antonio Spurs Sports Illustrated: Round 1/ Pick 16- Portland Trail Blazers NBA Draft Room: Round 1/ Pick 20- Miami Heat Immanuel Quickley Following some very impressive pre-draft workouts, sharpshooting point guard Immanuel Quick-ley’s draft stock has risen in recent weeks. With splits of 42/43/92 last season, the reigning SEC Player of the Year’s efficiency from all areas – particularly from three-point range and at the free-throw line – is exactly what NBA teams are looking for in 2020.

Originally expected to go very late in round two, it wouldn’t be too shocking if Quickley went off the board toward the beginning of the second round.

While his primary offensive skill fits perfectly in the modern league, some teams may be wary of him. Analysts with major concerns about his ability to match up defensively and distribute the ball have him projected toward the latter portion of selections.

MICHAEL CLUBB | STAFF Kentucky guard Ashton Hagans drives the ball down the baseline during the Kentucky vs. Tennessee men’s basketball game on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2020, at Thompson Bowling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee. Kentucky won 77-64.

That said, his consistent stroke from outside offers hope in today’s game. Quickley is a good size guard with a lot of potential as a shooter. If he can develop on the defensive end, he can potentially turn into a solid yet undersized “3-and-D” option.

Otherwise, he could fill a Kyle Korver-esque role.

CBS: Round 2/Pick 53- Sacramento Kings ESPN: Round 2/Pick 58- Toronto Raptors NBA Draft Room: Round 2/ Pick 41- San Antonio Spurs Sports Illustrated: Round 2/ Pick 38- New York Knicks Nick Richards

For Nick Richards, getting drafted is no guarantee. The Jamaican product shapes up as a late selec-tion or undrafted free agent that will again have to prove himself.

As an almost unheard-of three-year player for Coach Cal, See NBA on page 21

Monday, November 23, 2020

sports

JORDAN PRATHER | STAFF Kentucky freshman guard Tyrese Maxey shoots the ball during the game against Louisville on Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 78-70 in overtime.

NBA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

Richards had a breakout 20192020. He silenced many critics by averaging 14 points a game on 65% shooting while pulling in eight boards and swatting away two shots per contest.

At 6-foot-11, 250 pounds, Richards certainly has the size to compete at the next level. Worries over his pick-and-roll de-

JORDAN PRATHER | STAFF Kentucky sophomore guard Immanuel Quickley drives to the basket during the game against Louisville on Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky.

Kentucky won 78-70 in overtime.

fense combined with his slower-than-typical-Kentucky development have his draft stock capped in the last ten picks.

Even after his junior improvement, Richards has a lot of room to grow. He’s the sort of low risk/ high reward player you see selected in the draft’s final stages or signed shortly after its conclu-sion. A team that can develop him properly could be getting a bargain.

CBS: Undrafted

ESPN: Round 2/Pick 57- Los Angeles Clippers NBA Draft Room: Undrafted Sports Illustrated: Round 2/ Pick 56- Charlotte Hornets Ashton Hagans Hagans has the drive and the competitiveness necessary to be solid in the NBA. He’s the best as-sist man of the Kentucky prospects; he dropped six dimes with four rebounds per game as a sophomore.

JORDAN PRATHER | STAFF Kentucky junior forward Nick Richards shoots the ball during the game against Vanderbilt on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2020, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky.

Kentucky won 71-62.

His main mark was made defensively, where he totaled two steals per game and was a constant pest in the face of some of the nation’s best point guards.

Like his former teammates, Hagans isn’t without flaws. His three-point shooting woes and turno-ver rate have his stock limited to the final segment of the draft, but his passing and defensive ability could garner him a late slot.

CBS: Undrafted

ESPN: Round 2/Pick 53- Sacramento Kings NBA Draft Room: Round 2/ Pick 57- Los Angeles Clippers Sports Illustrated: Round 2/ Pick 57- Los Angeles Clippers E.J. Montgomery and Khalil Whitney also declared for the draft, but are not expected to be selected by most major predictions services.

The 2020 NBA Draft airs Wednesday, Nov. 18 on ESPN, starting at 7:00 p.m.

fall 2020 |17

Monday, November 23, 2020

sports HOSTING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

Calipari earned six starts in 2019-2020, leading his team in three-point shooting (38.0 %) and free throw percentage (70.8).

His teammate, junior guard Antoine Davis, has been a beacon of hope for Detroit fans. Over his first two seasons, he scored 1,513 career points, which ranks 13th in school history.

Named the 2018-2019 Horizon League Freshman of the Year, Davis started in all 30 of Detroit’s games last season, averaging 24.3 points per game on 32.4% shooting from downtown and 90.1% at the free-throw line. The two-time FirstTeam All-Horizon League player is the son of Titans head coach Mike Davis.

The elder Davis was appointed to Detroit-Mercy’s leading role in 2018.

He has been working hard to build the program since that time. Last year, his team finished with eight

18 | kentucky kernel

ELZY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

wins, six of which came in conference play.

Kentucky will face the Titans on November 27th.

Richmond Richmond comes from the Atlantic-10 conference, where it competes with recent Kentucky NCAA Tournament foe Davidson, among others. After ending the 2019-20 season with a record of 24-7, the Spiders were planning to return all five of their starters, but guard Nick Sherod is out for the year because of a torn ACL suffered last month. Though Richmond is not featured in the preseason AP Top 25, it did receive 40 votes.

Junior guard Jacob Gilyard is key to the Spider offense. He averaged 12.7 points per game last year, shooting 46.6% from the field and 36.7% from behind-the-arc. He also led his team in steals, snagging 3.2 per game.

Grant Golden paced the Spiders with 6.9 rebounds per game. The graduate student, who is listed as a forward, was one of 20 players

named to the watchlist for the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award, which is given to the nation’s best center.

The Spiders are led by head coach Chris Mooney, who is the winningest head coach in the school’s history. 2019-2020 was shaping up as one of the program’s best; the sixteenth-year head coach’s team was looking forward to a potential Cinderella NCAA Tournament run before the season was canceled.

Defense is believed to be the calling card for Richmond this year. The expected performance on that end of the court prompted Andy Katz’s to put the Spiders on his list of Final Four “Sleepers” – mid-major teams with the ability to make a surprise Final Four run.

Kentucky will get to see just how talented the Richmond is when the two round out the bubble on November 29th. Television networks and start times for each game have not yet been announced.

The Cats had four McDonald’s All-Americans over that stretch. At her alma-mater the next four years, she brought the Lady Vols the nation’s third-best class in 2013 and top-six classes each of the successive seasons.

This skill has been on display through in the transfer portal realm for Kentucky each of the past two years,

as she lured Chasity Patterson from Texas in 2018 and Dre’una Edwards – a former Pac 12 Freshman of the Year – to the Cats.

With the latter expected to make huge waves, and the former already providing major dividends last season, both moves should prove integral for this year’s squad.

She may not have been the leader Kentucky women’s basketball thought it would have for the up-coming

schedule, but Kyra Elzy is prepared for the role.

Elzy’s fingerprints are all over this roster from behind-the-scenes, but now she will be on the main stage in 2020. Buoyed by a terrific sup-porting cast, she’ll look to make history and take these Cats to the Final Four. This team may not fit the typical Cinderella mold, but everyone knows a great show requires a director, and Elzy’s in the chair.

Monday, November 23, 2020

classifieds WORK FOR THE KERNEL EMAIL EDITOR@KYKERNEL.COM TO GET INVOLVED LOOKING FOR WRITERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS

kykernel.com

A study of emergency care involving victims of severe traumatic brain injury is to be performed in this area.

The University of Kentucky is conducting a research study to identify the best way to deliver high dose oxygen under pressure (hyperbaric oxygen) so that severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) patients can recover with less disability.

All patients will receive standard of care for their TBI. Because head injury is a life threatening condition requiring immediate treatment, some patients will be enrolled without consent if a family member or representative is not rapidly available. Before the study starts, we will consult with the community. We welcome your feedback and questions.

For more information or to decline participation in this study, please visit: hobittrial.org Contact study coordinator: Theresa Mims, RN, Phone (859) 218-5540 Email theresa.mims@uky.edu Study Survey: https://redcap.uky.edu/redcap/surveys/?s=JFK74ATX4N

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20 | kentucky kernel