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Kentucky Basketball Fans: Meet Nick Richards

By Jared DeRossett

Mar 26, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds High School All-American center Nicholas Richards (4) poses for a photo during the 2017 McDonalds All American Game Portrait Day at Chicago Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 26, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds High School All-American center Nicholas Richards (4) poses for a photo during the 2017 McDonalds All American Game Portrait Day at Chicago Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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From Jamaica to Big Blue Nation

Nick Richards was one of the earliest recruits that Kentucky basketball added to the 2017-2018 roster. He’s a 6-11, 5-star center who played high school basketball in New Jersey, where he was named NJ.com Player of the Year. According to 247Sports, Richards was born in Jamaica, and hadn’t played basketball until four years ago.

Now, he’s the 14th ranked prospect nationally, and the second ranked center in 2017. Richards has a 7-2 wingspan, making him one of the elite shot-blockers/rim defenders in this class. He picked up offers from UCLA, Kansas, and Kentucky, earning a place in the McDonald’s All-American Game as well.

Could He Be What Kentucky Basketball was Missing?

It’s no secret that Kentucky has been missing a consistent rim protector for a couple of years now. Don’t get me wrong, Bam Adebayo could block some shots. But Coach Calipari looks for guys who can block 2-3 shots, night in and night out. Also, rim protecting doesn’t just consist of blocking whoever comes in the paint. It’s about altering shots just through the opponent’s fear of getting blocked.

That’s what Nick Richards brings to this defense. He has great length and his ability to play with his head above the rim will bring consistency to the front court of the Cats. Not to mention, this kid is tough. His gritty play style has gotten him in a few scuffles, but after the past two seasons, fans will welcome the tenacity.

It’s not all about defense for Richards, though. He has an innate ability to track the ball and get some tough offensive rebounds, going straight up, and finishing. With his back to the basket, Richards uses his height to create separation on a little right-hand hook that’s pretty to watch. Richards has also shown flashes of being able to knock down the ten-footers, which Kentucky will be looking to expand throughout.

Did somebody say lob city? Every year, Kentucky basketball has a big who can throw it down off the lob. This year is no different with Nick Richards. The kid plays with head above the rim, and with Quade Green throwing the pass, look out SportsCenter.

Welcome to the Greatest Tradition in College Basketball, Nick

https://twitter.com/iamnickrichards/status/810255464667738112

Richards will join the loaded 2017-2018 class with him are Quade Green, PJ Washington, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Shai-Gilgeous Alexander. The pressure will be high with this team as Wildcats fans are getting anxious to win number nine.

Next: Ranking the Top 3-Point Shots in Kentucky History

While there is uncertainty surrounding who’s returning from last season’s team, we know for a fact that these recruits are special. Everyone go follow Nick at the account above and show some love.

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