The transition from high school to college basketball is notoriously challenging. For Kentucky's newest freshman trio – Jasper, Malachi, and Braden – the early days have been a period of intense learning and adaptation, as shared by their more experienced teammates.
Adjusting to college ball: "It's different than high school"
A veteran player offered perspective on the freshman experience: "As a freshman, you come in with a lot of confidence, right? And um but I think the learning curve has been great for them um in practice. You I'm sure you'll ask them. They they struggled the first little bit of practices. um as any freshman would, you're trying to adjust to what you're trying to do. It's different than high school" Collin Chandler told the media. This honest assessment highlights the demanding nature of collegiate play.
Chandler knows all too well what it takes to get used to college basketball, after he came back from a Morman mission and had to really ramp up to get ready for the physical nature of college. Chandler adjusted but it did take him nearly all year to get back to where he was. That is keen insight from a player who has been through it.
Promising progress: Jasper Johnson, Malachi Moreno, and Braydon Hawthorne
Despite initial struggles, the freshmen have shown significant improvement. "Our freshman have been awesome. Jasper, Malachi, Braydon, they've all come around," Chandler said. Specific praise was given to Malachi and Jasper: "Malachi has been awesome. Jasper's been been great. His decision- making has gotten very good" Chandler continued. This quick development suggests a strong work ethic and coachable attitude.
Those things you can't teach in players. They either will work hard, or they won't. They will either listen and embrace coaching or they won't. Hearing that these guys are buying in, means the program is doing something right.
A dream come true: Playing for Kentucky
For local players like Jasper and Malachi, playing for Kentucky is a childhood dream. Trent Noah shared: "It really is a dream come true and and they they feel the same exact way... you grow up and you're like Malik Monk. Like there's no way that I'm ever going to be on the same level as Malik Monk... And now it's kind of like I'm putting on the jersey again."
What a wonderful way to look at things, seeing that you have arrived and are now there to help lead Kentucky just like the legends before them did.
Conclusion: The future is bright
The early reports on Kentucky's freshman class are encouraging, showcasing their ability to adapt and grow within a demanding environment. With mentorship from older players and a deep connection to the program's legacy, Jasper Johnson, Malachi Moreno, and Braydon Hawthorne are well on their way to contributing to the Wildcats' future success.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time he enjoys downtime with his family and Premier League soccer. You can find him on X here. Micah 7:7. #UptheAlbion