Kentucky basketball: 3 keys vs Florida, prediction, TV/ radio
By Drew Koch
3. The Wildcats need Quade Green back
Big Blue Nation was excited to see Jarred Vanderbilt on the court last Tuesday. Now, while the freshman from Houston had a solid debut, his presence at this time is not as vital as Quade Green‘s. Not having Green on the floor has been a serious blow to this young Kentucky basketball team.
Green is a floor general. He may only be a freshman, but he provides leadership for this team. Aside from PJ Washington, Green is the guy who can take the reigns for this year’s UK squad. Gilgeous-Alexander has filled in admirably, and in fact has raised this draft stock to the point where he may be considered as a first-round pick in the 2018 NBA Draft.
SGA’s sudden rise to stardom not withstanding, the Wildcats need Quade Green. Green provides the Cats with a perimeter threat. He may be the best outside shooter on this year’s team. He shoots and plays with confidence, he’s a solid ball-handler and he’s someone who Cal can count on at the end of games to sink his foul shots.
Calipari said this week that Green is likely a game-time decision. Even if he plays, I would expect that Green would come off the bench in relief of Gilgeous-Alexander. Now, once he returns to full strength, look for Green to regain his starting role on the team. If Green can give the Wildcats 10-15 minutes, their chances of winning will go up dramatically.