Kentucky basketball: 5 rushed reactions vs Alabama in SEC Tournament

3. Sacha Killeya-Jones, THANK YOU!

Sacha Killeya-Jones showed against Alabama the kind of efficient player that he can be each and every game. This was the SKJ that I’ve been writing about all season long. This was the SKJ that I’ve been campaigning for more minutes and an increased role over Nick Richards.

SKJ wasn’t perfect, but he was incredibly valuable as the “center” for this team. He was able to grab defensive rebounds, score in the post, grab some loose balls, and defend the paint. The Cats have gotten very little out of their centers during the season, especially Richards. It’s been difficult to figure out why Calipari continued to go with Richards over SKJ.

With Jarred Vanderbilt out injured, both Richards and SKJ had a chance to seize an important opportunity. I couldn’t be more excited to have witnessed, in person, SKJ make the most of his opportunity yesterday. I sincerely hope Calipari publicly compliments the play of SKJ, because Killeya-Jones deserves it.