Following Wednesday night’s statement win over the North Dakota Fighting Hawks, the Kentucky Wildcats will make a quick return to Rupp Arena’s hardwood on Sunday night to host the Virginia Military Institute Keydets.
After a season-opening debacle to the Duke Blue Devils, head coach John Calipari’s Wildcats have won two straight by an average of 25 points. All-be-it Southern Illinois and UND aren’t in Duke’s tier, the two wins are certainly confidence builders for Calipari’s club.
On Wednesday, sophomore forward PJ Washington stole the show with a career-high 25 points and seven rebounds. He made a career-high four three-pointers, too. All of Washington’s production came in an efficient 17 minutes, eluding to the fact the Wildcats’ should look his way more often in their half-court offense.
Freshman sensation Tyler Herro also broke out of his slump by turning the clock back to his August-form, scoring 18 points in 25 minutes while also recording five steals.
On Sunday night, look for one or two other Wildcats to also break their silence. EJ Montgomery is one name that surfaces, as he was the program’s top recruit entering the season but has yet to post a standout performance.
Even if his coming out party lingers past Sunday’s game, having patience with the young talent would be wise. His potential appears to stand high above everyone else on the team, which could lead to a budding star at Calipari’s disposal as the season unfolds.
Kentucky’s most consistent player to start the season has been a freshman, something that wasn’t exactly expected out of a team with more veterans than usual.
Nonetheless, Keldon Johnson has flourished in the UK spotlight. Johnson’s scoring has reached double digits in all three of his outings. Though his scoring has declined each game, his shooting percentage has only improved along with his rebounding en route to recording a double-double on Wednesday night.
As the Wildcats look to seize true momentum leading up to the Citi Hoops Classic, look for Calipari’s Cats to become more comfortable playing a “team” game going forward.
Tip-off on Sunday is set for 6 P.M. EDT.