This was not the story that I was planning on writing, nor the story that I want to write. The Kentucky Wildcats fell in the game of revenge last night to the Wisconsin Badgers breaking hearts all across the Big Blue Nation. Although it is hard to see light at this point, There are positives to look at.
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This team was supposed to win the title, and as heart breaking as it is to be coming home from Indianapolis empty handed, it was a great ride. Just the incredible feat that a team in this era with so many young players could go 38 games before losing its first one is something to be proud of.
One loss on the season does not define this team. When you look back on this team, you will remember the growth of the Harrison twins. The Incredible stretch of shooting Devin Booker went on, The dominance of Karl Anthony-Towns down low. More than anything you will remember the comrodary that these players played with together and the pride that they took in wearing Kentucky across their chest.
It seems too early to be thinking of next year, but that is the only thing that there is to look forward to is the fact that John Calipari will reload with new talent next year. In the next few weeks watch for who is leaving and who is coming in.
OUT
Do not expect to see Willie or Karl in the front court any longer. As much as both of them love to play for the Kentucky Wildcats, there is too much money and too many dreams to pass on. Devin Booker went cold the latter half of the season and could come back but his stock is still around the lottery and would be hard to pass on. Trey Lyles could be the second most NBA ready but there is still an on the fence type of feeling about him, I think/hope that he stays for one more season. As for the Twins, with so much expected to come in, they will take their opportunity to jump to the next level.
IN
The Kentucky Wildcats are bringing in the number one center Skal Labissiere and the number one point guard Isaiah Briscoe to next years roster to likely join Tyler Ulis and Dakari Johnson as the other point guard, center combo. Also joining the party is an underrated shooting guard from Chicago Charles Matthews. Matthews has experience playing with Ulis and will be a great slasher to the paint.
PREDICTION
There are still plenty of fish in the McDonald’s All American pond to fish out for the Cats. Malik Newman and Jaylen Brown are both ranked in the top four and just waiting to see who leaves for the NBA. Either player would be a great addition of players who can create their own shot. The first to commit could be Stephen Zimmerman out of Bishop Gorman. The big man’s mother seems to love Coach Cal and that could be enough to get him to switch coasts.
Morale of the story, it may hurt now, but it not for too long, tip your hat and get ready for the new recruits.
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