Wildcat Blue Nation
Fansided

5 Takeaways from Kentucky vs. South Carolina

By Chaka Cummings

LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY - JANUARY 11: John Calipari the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats gives instructions to his team against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Rupp Arena on January 11, 2020 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY - JANUARY 11: John Calipari the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats gives instructions to his team against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Rupp Arena on January 11, 2020 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 6
Next
LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY – DECEMBER 28: Nick Richards #4 of the Kentucky Wildcats shoots the ball against the Louisville Cardinals at Rupp Arena on December 28, 2019 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY – DECEMBER 28: Nick Richards #4 of the Kentucky Wildcats shoots the ball against the Louisville Cardinals at Rupp Arena on December 28, 2019 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

1. Kentucky Needs Its Veterans to Generate Offense

This team goes as Nick Richards and Ashton Hagans go. It has been that way all season long and it was that way, again, in Columbia.

It is well known, the best offensive line for this team uses three guards. This smaller lineup is led by Ashton Hagans and his ability to facilitate offense for both himself and others. His driving abilities and craftiness in managing the pick and roll are some of Kentucky’s best options in half-court offensive sets.

Hagans fouled out with 13 points and 7 assists.

That was the story of the night.

Compounding this problem was the lack of rhythm. Nick Richards’ rhythm was disrupted by fouls, a veritable death-sentence as this team needs his ability to feed off of post plays, as well as his rebounding and put back capabilities.

Even though his rhythm was stifled, his transition baskets – a skill that few big men in the country can match – contributed to his 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 blocks.

Home/Kentucky basketball