Kentucky Basketball: Game Recap Montevallo Falcons 72 @ Kentucky Wildcats 95

Britney McIntosh

Even though I never feared that UK would lose this game it was still a little too close for my taste. Kentucky should have more than a 52-42 lead in the second half against a Division 2 team. You have to give the Falcons credit for coming out and not being scared of the moment and giving everything they have but it's just a game that UK should and needs to dominate. The offense while explosive is doing its job but the defense really has been a disappointment so far especially considering it has the chance and should be an elite defense.

But that is what exhibition games are for. Work through the kinks, get the freshmen used to college basketball and get ready for the season.

My Observations:

• Willie's offensive game right now is getting better each time he steps out on the court. His shot just looks good and has the perfect amount of touch on it plus he is showing the ability to use either right or left hand. At some pout and soon I think he will be hitting his free throws at 70% rate and have the ability to knock down a 12-foot jumper. WCS also finished the night with 6 blocked shots to go with 12 points and 4 rebounds.
• Julius could legitimately break the NCAA record for double-doubles in a season currently held by Kansas State's Michael Beasley. Julius is just all around the ball and really does leave his mark in every aspect of the game as he finished with 21 points and 11 boards. His combination of size, strength and quickness combined with his surprising ball handling is just too much for anybody to stop. Julius might honestly be the best player UK has ever had.
• Aaron Harrison just really impresses me more and more. His ability to run the point is surprisingly good to me. He doesn't force shots and he looks to get everybody involved. Andrew is clearly the point guard for this team but Aaron can fill in no problem whenever needed as he finished the game with 10 points and 7 rebounds.
• If it wasn't for Randle, James Young would be the best player on this team. This guy is just a stud and it would not surprise me if he isn't a First Team All-American this year and turns into a Top-5 pick in the NBA draft. Young finished the game with 16 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal.
• Poythress had another OK game, which I'm pretty sure I will say a lot this year. Finished with 10 points, 4 rebounds and 1 steal but again failed to impress me. Way too much talent to not be making a bigger impact but if he hasn't changed by now odds are he never will. Still can be a good role player on this team and help out.
• Dakari had another solid game with 9 points and 5 rebounds but he is just a force down low and too much for most people to handle. He is a true back you down post. Expect his season averages to be right around here. Will cause constant double teams.
• Offense can obviously improve and will as the year goes on. Expect this to be one of the best offensive teams this year.
• The defense is what worries me. They clearly have the potential to be lock down and elite and as the season goes on I'm sure they will improve on this matter but until then you could see slip ups against good teams like Michigan State, Tennessee and Florida due to the struggles of this defense.