Where in the world was Koby Brea during Kentucky basketball's loss to Clemson?

Where in the world was Koby Brea in the loss to Clemson? On the bench, that is where you could find him. In Kentucky’s disappointing 70-66 loss to Clemson, one decision by head coach Mark Pope left fans and analysts scratching their heads: why was sharpshooter Koby Brea benched for much of the second half?

The Wildcats struggled to generate consistent offense, particularly from deep, where they shot a dismal 7-of-27 (25.9%). Jaxon Robinson Otega Oweh, and Kerr Kriisa, three of Kentucky’s primary perimeter threats, combined for just 10-of-30 shooting on the night, including several key misses during crunch time. Yet Pope stuck with them over Brea, who has been one of the team’s most reliable offensive weapons this season.

Brea, who entered the game shooting over 60% from beyond the arc, was given limited opportunities, attempting just two three-pointers in his sparse minutes. Despite Kentucky’s clear offensive struggles, Pope kept Brea on the bench for much of the second half, only subbing him in during the final minute when the game was nearly out of reach.

It’s a puzzling decision, particularly given how much Kentucky struggled to score against Clemson’s physical defense. With the Wildcats failing to capitalize on open looks and trailing for significant portions of the game, Brea’s sharpshooting could have provided a much-needed spark. Instead, Pope’s reliance on Robinson and Oweh, who both seemed to lack confidence, hindered Kentucky’s chances down the stretch.

The decision to sideline Brea becomes even more baffling when considering the broader context. The Wildcats, as a team average 96 points per game, were held to just 66 points—30 below their season average. Kentucky also recorded just 11 assists, a far cry from their usual 21, signaling a breakdown in ball movement and offensive flow. A great shooter really opens things up for others.

Mark Pope has earned praise for his leadership and in-game adjustments throughout his tenure at Kentucky, but this decision raises legitimate questions about his rotations and game management too. Why was one of Kentucky’s most efficient shooters not utilized when the team desperately needed offense?

For a program with championship aspirations, decisions like these can’t be overlooked. As the Wildcats regroup from this loss, Pope must address why a player like Brea, who has repeatedly proven his value, wasn’t trusted in the moments that mattered most. Otherwise, Big Blue Nation’s frustration may only grow louder as the games get bigger.

The Cats are back in action against Gonzaga Saturday, so a quick regroup is needed.