SB Nation - Ramon Harris

Austin Peay Governors 69 @ Kentucky Wildcats 90: Postmortem

Truzenzuzex — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 23:36:33 -0000

Patrick Patterson, stud forward, putting in a deuce.

Well, it was interesting.

Congratulations to the Austin Peay Governors for hanging in there with an obviously bigger and more talented Kentucky Wildcat team. The Governors had no quit in them, and are much better than I expected. They challenged our big people, took (and mostly made) the shots Kentucky gave them, and just generally impressed me with their toughness and physicality, particulary in the interior.

Today was a day of extremes -- extreme badness and extreme goodness. But the only stat that matters was pure, unalloyed goodness.

The badness was our team defense -- it was pretty loathsome. I have not looked at the numbers yet (I usually don't until I do the stat analysis), but I do know that Kentucky's defensive eFG% was not as good as it should have been by a long way.

With that said, though, you have to love the spectacular stuff that the team delivered today. As I sit here enjoying a victory tot of Four Roses Single Barrel, my thoughts turn to the amazing double-alley-oop, Eric Bledsoe to John Wall to Patrick Patterson. That was, in a microcosm, the goodness of today. UK shared the basketball incredibly well on offense, and but for some really bad turnovers, had a very impressive outing offensively.

Defensively, it was another matter. I paid particular attention to Darius Miller and Darnell Dodson, and it is pretty clear why Miller is starting and Dodson isn't. I was also disappointed in the defense of John Wall. It looks to me like he is really conscious of his fouls, and just isn't quite tough enough defensively. It's hard to be too tough on him, though, he was banged up pretty bad and wound up looking like he had been in a knife fight with a big band-aid over his forehead. An apparent minor hyperextension of his knee scared the bejeezus out of me, but I have to give Wall credit for overall toughness.

More after the jump.

Here are my observations:

How much fun was the late second half of this game? I couldn't sit down.
John Wall was great offensively. He shared the ball, and all his shots but two were good ones. A couple of bad turnovers and some matador defense marred an otherwise outstanding outing by Wall.
I'd give anything to see Darius Miller not disappear for long stretches. But when he's good, he's really good.
Patrick Patterson is just ... how can you not love this guy? He does it all -- defense, offense, spectacular stuff. I have a huge man-crush on Patterson.
Eric Bledsoe is developing into a real good player. He had some defensive lapses, but he was always a factor on every possession, even when he didn't score or assist.
The Big Cuz was tough today, wasn't he?
DeAndre Liggins played. He didn't impact the stat sheet, but he played. And quite a bit, too. The timing of this suggests the reason for his long absence. I will not say more.
Daniel Orton is just ... well, he's really a favorite of mine. I love what he does, and I love how he does it.
Dodson can be so much better than he has been lately.
Ramon Harris didn't get much time today. Liggins is why.
Perry Stevenson made a really nice move at the end, and did some nice things. I just wish his hands weren't made of pig iron.

Victory 1999. How sweet it is. It wasn't our best, but then, Calipari said the 'Cats did not practice well, and their lack of energy on defense really showed. I am disappointed the 'Cats didn't show defensive progress, but I'll get over it.

The Big Blue Daily Mail -- Wildcats vs. the World Edition

Truzenzuzex — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 00:04:47 -0000

I bumped into this Gregg Doyel article down in the FanShots, and thought it deserved a bit more commentary.

I have to admit, I used to really loathe Doyel, but over the past couple of years, he has grown on me. I can't really put my finger on it, he really hasn't been that much different -- maybe I'm just getting less sensitive to sarcasm in my old age and learning to appreciate it more. Embracing the hate, as it were.

Well, this is certainly no hate piece, at least, not directed at Kentucky, or Calipari. In fact, it's just the kind of thing I might write if I actually, you know, had a sense of humor. Here are a couple of excerpts:

The media would hate it [Kentucky going undefeated], but that makes me want it even more. Media groupthink has decided John Calipari is a bad guy, but media groupthink also decided Texas should play Alabama for the college football championship, and that the running back from Alabama is the best player in the country. Media groupthink is silly.

I have often thought the very same thing. Media groupthink is silly, sometimes even extremely harmful, and the thought of angering the media by watching a sacred cow or three get brutally slaughtered and eaten raw really warms the cockles of my heart.

As a bonus, we would also get to watch the cranial conflagrations of opposing fans or just plain UK haters who are dying to see Coach Cal fail, or find some tiny shred of moral turpitude to justify a "See! I told ya so!" Watching both the media and their cognitively dissonant acolytes spray gray mater all over their basement and/or cubicle wall is, to paraphrase the Grinch, "A sight I really must see." But as Doyel says, I'm not predicting it -- just wishing for it.

More after the jump.

Another graf I really like:

Imagine, then, this coach winning the national title this year -- and not losing a game along the way. Kentucky would replace Bob Knight's 1976 Indiana Hoosiers as the last team to go undefeated. From his perch at ESPN, Knight would be miserable. From its perch in Indianapolis, the NCAA would be miserable. Memphis would hate it. Louisville would hate it. Indiana wouldn't believe it. The media would moan.

And what sweet, sonorous music that would make! The mind fairly boggles at the prospect of the angst and anguish of Louisville fans. And Indiana fans? Oh, my. We'd have to bring the Kentucky National Guard with us next time we went to Bloomington for a game. The gnashing of teeth from Tobacco Road would be audible all the way to Pauley Pavilion.

Thanks, Gregg. Yeah, it's just a dream.

But it's a good dream.

Now, for the news:

UK commit injured
Fortunately, it should be minor. Just a concussion, although those can be a real problem.
College football notes: Dec. 17 - Sports - Kentucky.com
Central Michigan is usually a reliable place to find good coaches, much like Western Kentucky in basketball.
Basketball Prospectus | Articles | Around the Rim: Texas About to Get Tested
Junior point guard Jai Lucas will make his Texas debut Saturday as he becomes eligible after transferring from Florida. He is the son of former NBA point guard and coach John Lucas.

Texas Longhorns vs. the North Carolina Tar Heels. Must see TV, in my book.
Wildcats Thunder Blog: Kentucky vs Austin Peay......A Preview
Mashburn to return for Kentucky’s bid for 2,000 basketball victories | courier-journal.com | The Courier-Journal
Awesome! Mashburn was the biggest recruit to come to Kentucky in my lifetime, and what a great player he was. I forgot just how great until I watched the Kentucky Wildcats vs. the Georgia Bulldogs from back in 1993 the other night. I sure would love to have him back.
Man falls into pit in Kentucky cave, dies | courier-journal.com | The Courier-Journal
Prayers for the family.
Kentucky Sports Radio " Blog Archive " Newton Figured To Start in Nashville
Key transfers finally eligible - Beyond the Arc - msnbc.com
Three top teams get a lot stronger.
What’s going to happen with Liggins? | Vaught's Views
Calipari seems bent on not publicly discussing personnel issues. I agree that at some point, it might make more sense for Liggins to transfer if Cal is just going to treat him like a victory cigar. But I suspect otherwise.
The Big Blue Nation Report: Just a little Christmas Jingle
Heh. Not bad ...
Lawyer: Ex-Connecticut Huskies student manager at center of recruiting allegations has not spoken to NCAA - ESPN
A lawyer for the man at the center of recruiting allegations against the University of Connecticut says his client has not spoken to investigators.
NCAA Tournament: If It Ain't Broke.. | College Basketball by Collegehoops.net
The NCAA Tournament is the single greatest event in American sports. It is three weeks of complete saturation of the best college basketball has to offer, with each game an elimination game, with each game coming one step closer to a championship.

The argument against expanding the tournament. Pretty compelling. But it’s not great because there are a lot of teams playing. It’s great because there are a lot of good teams playing. 31 teams are there because they won their conference championship – they earned their way in. The others represent (in theory) the 34 best teams remaining.
Around the Top 25: Ohio State beats Presbyterian; Thad Matta doesn’t eject any fans | College Hoops Journal
Ouch. How's that phiz feelin' today, Roy?
After long hiatus, Caracter shows signs he could salvage career - NCAA Division I Mens Basketball - CBSSports.com
UTEP is 5-0 without Derrick Caracter.

And 0-2 with him.

That's what many will mention about Caracter's return to college basketball, and I suppose it's fair to mention because, well, it's true. The record doesn't lie. There's no way around it. But as someone who sat courtside and watched Caracter get 15 points and 15 rebounds in 32 minutes against Ole Miss, I can tell you with a degree of certainty that he's not the reason UTEP lost its past two games.

Wouldn't it be sooooo droll if UTEP wound up playing U of L sometime this year? Caracter vs. Pitino? Oh, I would absolutely love to see that happen.

Please, NIT committee, make that happen. :-)
Tyler Hansbrough, Jonny Flynn shaped decade in college hoops - 2000s: The Decade in Sports - SI.com
BEST COACHING RIVALRY: John Calipari vs. Bruce Pearl Calipari has been at loggerheads with lots of coaches over the years, from Lou Carnesecca to John Chaney to Jim Calhoun to his current doppelganger at Louisville, Rick Pitino. But the state of Tennessee was truly not big enough for both Pearl and Calipari, whose constant jabs at each other in the media, on the recruiting trail and on the court made for great theater. The rivalry crested on Feb. 23, 2008, when Pearl's Vols, who were ranked No. 2 in the country, edged top-ranked and undefeated Memphis 66-62.

I hope it goes from "best" to "epic."
3-Pointers: Krzyzewski backs tournament expansion - Mike DeCourcy - College Basketball - Sporting News
Most important, getting into the tournament wouldn't mean much if 96 teams were admitted. It's like being invited to your class reunion. You graduated, they found your address, so you get a letter. It doesn't mean you were popular.

That's my main concern.
Sprints Is Interested In Hiring a Florida Assistant // 12.17.09 - Team Speed Kills
Even more expansion talk - this time Pac Ten gets in on the action - Block U
Expansion talk in the PAC-10.
Could Big Ten Expansion Force the SEC to Bring In a New School? - Dawg Sports
Kyle King has thoughts on any possible SEC expansion. I would not want the Cardinals in the SEC, but Georgia Tech or Clemson would be very solid additions.
Q&A: StatSheet's Robbie Allen - Blogger So Dear
Blogger So Dear interviews StatSheet founder Robbie Allen
" BBL: Josh Selby now considering Arizona John Clay’s Sidelines
John Clay's Big Blue Links.
John Wall: The Best Freshman in College Basketball History?
Intentional Foul " RIP Chris Henry
Very sad. Prayers to the family.
Vaught's Views: UK's Ramon Harris handling challenges of being a new dad: AMNews.com
He’s not a great scorer and knows scoring is not what this team needs from him. Instead, he’s willing — and able — to play defense, rebound and pass. And he hustles. He never seems to get up on a loose ball or long rebound.

Ramon has carved out playing time on a team where very few thought he could. Impressive young man.
Intentional Foul " Royce White Says Adios
Ouch. Not good for the Gophers.

Kentucky 90, Indiana 73: Postmortem

Truzenzuzex — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 19:37:10 -0000

More photos » by Darron Cummings - AP

Board domination, thy name is Patrick Patterson.

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I'm taking a big, deep drought of the "John Wall as Player of the Year" Kool-Aid today, because he earned it. Blue raspberry. Mmmm. Good.

Congrats to the Indiana Hoosiers for playing a great first half of college basketball. Maurice Creek is definitely the real deal, and Tom Crean has this team playing at a high level considering how few true big people they have on the roster. Indiana is a team on the rise, and Tom Crean is quite likely a future Hall of Famer. This series will get much tougher for UK in very short order, I predict.

I loved the atmosphere in Assembly Hall today, it was truly excellent. The fans turned out in droves to see this great game, and they deserve all sorts of kudos for creating a terrific atmosphere for this storied rivalry.

There is no doubt whatsoever that this was the best game Kentucky has played this year, by a very wide margin. Almost everybody got involved offensively, due in no small part to the outstanding play of John Wall, which I'll talk more about later. I was very pleased by the way the 'Cats communicated and shared the basketball, and I have no doubt that Calipari was pleased as well. What the coaching staff will not be pleased at was the poor defense in the first half. To Coach Cal's credit, he motivated the team to a much better defensive second half, which resulted in the kind of dominating victory that should reasonably have been expected by a team as talented as this UK group.

More after the jump.

Here are my observations:

John Wall showed today that he can learn lessons, and will trust his teammates. This was, barring his relatively poor defense, simply an outstanding game for the superstar freshman. I could not be more pleased with how he played, and how well he passed the basketball. When Wall plays like that, I don't think Kentucky can lose. Penetrate and kick, and let your teammates score. Great stuff.
Eric Bledsoe has really worked hard on his shot, and it paid off in spades today. He was white-hot from the perimeter, and played by far his best game as a Wildcat. Bledsoe played great defense on Maurice Creek in the second half, and that was a big reason that UK won going away.
Patrick Patterson was again the man, and I am glad to see him get more touches than he did in the UConn game. He made the most of them. And he did a great job on the glass as well with eight boards.
DeMarcus Cousins was absolutely a beast in the post today. Easily his best game, competition consideration included, that he has played so far.
Ramon Harris -- Five big rebounds, three of them offensive. I still wish he could score, but he brings a lot of good energy to the team when he is in, and his judgement is very sound.
Daniel Orton was a little off this game. That's okay, he has been a difference maker in most games, and he is entitled to a clunker now and then.
Darnell Dodson played better today than in a long while on both ends of the floor. We need his length and shooting.
Darius Miller should have done more on the boards, but he had the second most assists on the team with four. Seven points, four assists, three rebounds and zero turnovers in 18 minutes is a good line.
Our team rebounding was really awesome, and blockouts were terrific.
Our team defense was not awesome. It was pretty good in the second half, though.
I loved Calipari giving a disappointed Cousins noogies to cheer him up. It worked perfectly.
Don't know what Cal said at halftime to change our defensive fortunes, but he should bottle it and keep it with him at all times.

No question, the best offense UK has played all year, and decent D in the second half. There are a lot of good things and fewer than normal bad things to take away from this game. I am very excited to see some really good, high-quality basketball, and see it for more than five or ten minutes. Any UK fan who saw this game has got to be pleased, not just with the outcome, but with the process.

More, please.

The Big Blue Daily Mail -- IU Eve Edition

Truzenzuzex — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 14:33:59 -0000

More photos » by Julie Jacobson - AP

Is that a chicken wing there, Christan?

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Later today, we will have our preview of the Kentucky Wildcats at the Indiana Hoosiers game. In honor of the great legacy and tradition of this ancient border rivalry, we will be providing the same full statistical analysis as for the Connecticut Huskies and North Carolina Tar Heels.

I think the Hoosiers, in particular, are really looking forward to a shot at the highly-ranked Wildcats. Indiana had a great game in Madison Square Garden against the Pittsburgh Panthers the other night, a game which they won decisively on a neutral floor. Despite getting killed on the offensive glass, the Hoosiers made their free throws and held the Panthers to less than 40% eFG, (31% FG), which is really getting it done defensively.

Christian Watford had a big game, as did former Kentucky recruit Verdell Jones. Tom Crean is firmly in rebuilding mode with the Hoosier team, and one more good recruiting class will put them back on track as the legendary opponent UK is used to facing in Bloomington.

The news follows the jump.

Dream Preview: Kentucky Opens SEC Play Against Georgia
BSB has a dream.
" SEC links: Florida takes first loss; Kiffin takes a stand John Clay’s Sidelines
John Clay's Big Blue Links.
" Updated UK basketball stats (through UConn) in Excel John Clay’s Sidelines
John Clay has some stats compiled in Google Docs for your perusal.
Official Release Announcing Brian Kelly - Notre Dame Football | UHND.com
Congrats to Kelly. Not sure about his manner of leaving, though.
Wildcat Blue In a Sea of Orange: Are the Kentucky kids losing ground in Wildcat's football recruiting class?
So it appears that UK is getting a slightly better level of recruit. Also consider that these rankings are old and do not accurately reflect the players senior season. When all is said and done, Raymond Sanders and Dale Trimble may end up being 4* recruits and several other players may benefit from an upgrade as well.

I think this is a very nice class we have coming in this year. It isn't really an upgrade from last year, but pretty much on par.
Indiana faces strong test against No. 4 Kentucky - NewsFlash - al.com
"I told my team they're No. 2, but they're No. 4?" Crean asked after the game. "By Friday night, they might be No. 1 with the way they're playing. You want to talk about Kentucky? They're the real deal."

I don't think we are playing that great, myself. We are getting the job done, though, and the matchups look very much in UK's favor.
Know Thy Opponent: Kentucky Wildcats | Inside the Hall | An Indiana Hoosiers basketball blog
What remains to be seen is how this talented group will respond in a true road environment, which they’ll experience for the first time on Saturday in Bloomington.

Indeed. Saturday will be different, but I think the Wildcats can handle it after the crucible of Madison Square Garden.
idsnews.com | Indiana Daily Student |
Although John Calipari’s Wildcats probably should have lost to both Miami (Ohio) and Stanford last month, the Big Blue are 9-0 and coming off impressive wins versus North Carolina and Connecticut.

Well, I don't agree with this assessment at all. We were very close in both games, and had ourselves in a position to win, and we did. Sometimes it doesn't work out that way, but there is no way we "...probably should have lost ..." either game.
3-pointers: Kentucky players execute in crunch time - Mike DeCourcy - College Basketball - Sporting News
Kentucky was up 64-61 Wednesday night when UConn grabbed the ball after a missed Ramon Harris free throw with 14 seconds left. Here's where Kentucky's players demonstrated they understood their circumstance. Knowing UConn would be in search of a 3-pointer, most UK defenders stationed themselves outside the arc. The one UK player who stepped inside that area did so on his way to challenging a UConn player on the opposite side of the court.

DeCourcy gets this right again.

Kentucky 64, Connecticut 61 -- Postmortem

Truzenzuzex — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 05:29:51 -0000

More photos » by Julie Jacobson - AP

Josh Harrellson made one good play tonight, and this is it.

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What. A. Game.

We may be saying that a lot this year. I have no idea why, but at no time during this game did I ever worry about losing. Why? I can only suppose that perhaps John Wall is the reincarnation of the Buddha, and all I can think of is Zen.

Great effort by the Connecticut Huskies. They were what we knew they would be -- tough and determined. Jerome Dyson was incredible, Kemba Walker was amazing, Gavin Edwards outplayed everybody on both teams -- except one. John Wall. The Huskies were awesome, just amazing, but not amazing enough this time.

For Kentucky, well, we saw exactly what John Calipari implied we should see -- a really bad team having really good stretches because of their talent. Once again, UK had one more good stretch in this game than the opponent, a now-familiar theme for the 2009 Wildcats.

I have to confess, I really wanted Calipari to go zone. But as he has said, and perhaps I should acquiesce to (not a chance), "I am the coach, let me do my job." Okay, Coach, but forgive me if I sit in my armchair and disagree. It's what we do here in the Bluegrass State, and if you are going to kanoodle the job here at Kentucky, this is just another part of what you have so enthusiastically embraced. Deal with it.

Moving along, I was not concerned going in down six to the Huskies at the half. I want to stop right there and ask you all, ladies and gentlemen of the Big Blue Nation -- when was the last time you could have imagined that we could go into half time down six points versus the UConn Huskies in Madison Square Garden and not be concerned? It has been a very, very long time, certainly the better part of a decade at least. That, in and of itself, is a wonderful thing.

More after the jump.

Here are the things that jump out at me:

Bad Cuz, Good Cuz, all in the same game. Nothing to see here. Move along.
John Wall. Well, what can you say? He was pretty good, but then, he always is. But he had a stretch in the first half where he looked very much like the freshman he is.
Patrick Patterson -- Warrior of warriors. I have no idea how severe his ankle sprain is, but I get the impression he would have gone back in with a compound fracture -- he was going to make sure this game was won, and physical maladies be damned. And largely because of his leadership, the 'Cats did win.
Eric Bledsoe had an off night, particularly defensively. It wasn't lack of effort, really, just lack of experience. He will get a lot better, and his effort was very good.
Darius Miller just took a step back tonight. He didn't look confident, his shot was flat, and the more he missed, the worse he played. But he had a great game defensively against Stanley Robinson, who was almost never a factor.
Darnell Dodson made a couple of big shots, but he played abysmally overall, particularly on defense. He is much better than that.
Daniel Orton did what he always does -- play harder than anybody. This time, he fouled out. He will have better days, and this day was better than it looked.
Ramon Harris is such a great effort player, but he sure does need some kind of offensive game. Big free throw at the end, though. And a ton of rebounds.
Josh Harrellson made one good play and then laid down flat. C'mon, Josh, you can do this.
Perry Stevenson gave some good minutes, and did what he was in there to do.
Are the oddsmakers any good or what? They had UK +2. Scary.
That 12-0 run showed what could happen, just like the 28-2 run last week did. If the 'Cats can ever learn to sustain the effort, look out Indianapolis.
Calipari did a great job. Then again, John Wall can make an average coach look like a genius. Fortunately, he didn't have to tonight.
Where the heck did our offensive rebounding go? On vacation to Hawaii, apparently.

That's it. It's late. I'm finishing up a taste of Four Roses for a nightcap. Up next -- the Hoosiers.

UK Athletics: The Good, the Bad, and the Hilarious

Ken Howlett — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 17:00:19 -0000

More photos » by Ed Reinke - AP

More, please.

Browse more photos »

With the basketball 'Cats fresh off their 68-66 victory over the North Carolina Tar Heels, and the football 'Cats officially going country with their third Music City Bowl invite in four years, there is much happening in the world of Kentucky sports. While normally I write about a particular event or topic, today I'm going to venture into the realm of diversification and include in this post thoughts on the happenings of UK basketball and football.

For more, make the jump with me:

The Good

Fast-break 'Cats -- For those who witnessed UK's roller-coaster win over North Carolina on Saturday, you saw nine minutes and twenty-eight seconds of near perfection. With UK down 9-2 at the 17:16 mark of the first half, the 28-2 Big Blue blitzkrieg that followed, had me, 'ol Roy, and anyone else watching wondering if the Wildcats would pulverize our powder blue rivals into submission before halftime. For nearly ten minutes the 'Cats did what they do best, and that is leave it to John Wall to gallop at a break-neck pace; passing, shooting, and alley-ooping his way into the hearts of Kentucky fans (and NBA scouts).

During UK's dominant first-half demonstration Wall scored seven points, and assisted on four of UK's other eight made baskets. He loudly and proudly announced to the world that the hype surrounding his "game" is not only justified, but it may be understated.

Also getting into the act during UK's nine-and-a-half minutes of bliss were: Darius Miller -- Two three-pointers, a mid-range jumper, two steals, and one assist: Patrick Patterson -- A jumper, dunk, layup, and two free throws: Darnell Dodson contributed a three-pointer and a steal.

During a stretch most coaches only dream about, the 'Cats made 11-14 shots (with six assists), pilfered the Heels four times, and committed only two turnovers (neither by a guard). UK's stifling defense (with an assist to the pace) held the Tar Heels to only 1-9 shooting, while forcing eight turnovers.

From down 9-2, to up 30-11 in less than half of a half -- No one, and I mean no one will want to run with this team. If Roy Williams, possibly the elite fast break coach in the country, doesn't want any part of the John Wall-led "Wonder of Me Tour," no coach interested in winning will be enthused to see Wall streaking unmolested toward the basket with a team of thoroughbreds filling the lane, or waiting to pop from the perimeter. To emasculate a lesser-team in such a way is impressive, but North Carolina's roster is filled with talent, which makes what I saw awe-inspiring.

UK won despite a sub-par performance by DeMarcus Cousins -- Many so-called experts have prognosticated that Kentucky cannot beat good teams (and therefore, be a Final Four contender), without Cousins being a major force. Bull excrement!

Patrick Patterson, Daniel Orton, and Perry Stevenson displayed why the mercurial Cousins, while very talented, is not the key to UK's low post play -- Patterson produced a typical PPat game: 19 points, seven rebounds, one block and one steal, while Orton and Stevenson combined to play 26 minutes and produced five rebounds, three blocks, one steal, and one assist.

As long as Patterson has another player of size working with him down low, taking a bit of the defensive pressure off, he is capable of handling the workload. He's proved that for two-plus years.

UK won despite John Wall missing seven straight minutes of action -- I admit, when Wall started limping, I started pacing.

When Wall left the game in the second half at the 18:46 mark (and began his hypodermic-dodging journey back to the floor), UK was up 45-30. When Wall reappeared, much to the delight of the record-setting Rupp Arena crowd (as well as millions of palpitating UK fans at home), at the 11:44 mark, Kentucky was up 54-42. My calculator says UNC outscored the 'Cats 12-9 in that nerve-racking stretch of the game. Not bad when one considers Wall is the heart and soul of what makes UK go.

The 'Cats did commit four turnovers (two by Bledsoe, one each by Patterson and Ramon Harris), and they made only 4-12 shots (three of the makes were by Patterson) during the stretch, but they held serve, they preserved the lead, and that's all that really matters. Good teams win despite adversity. The fulfillment of that adage was on full display Saturday afternoon.

The final two minutes -- With UK clinging to a 61-56 lead over the Heels (at the two minute mark), freshmen guards John Wall and Eric Bledsoe refused to allow the 'Cats to lose. Over the two minutes that mean the most, Wall and Bledsoe combined to make five of six free throws, stole a pass (Wall), made a layup (Bledsoe), and dished out an assist (Wall).

The "Cool Hand Luke" demeanor in which these two players perform in end-game scenarios, at such a young age, cannot be overstated. Some players are simply gifted with the absence of fear. We are now watching two such gifted athletes. Enjoy 'em while ya got 'em.

UPDATE -- Kentucky's three-point threat -- With UK's 6-16 (37.5%) three-point shooting against North Carolina, the 'Cats trey accuracy now stands at 37.9% (50-132) on the year.

Led by Darius Miller's 40.0% shooting (14-35), Kentucky is quickly putting to rest the preseason questioning of their perimeter game. Eric Bledsoe, who's only weakness was thought to be his shooting, has pitched-in to the tune of 12 made treys on 25 attempts (48.0%); Darnell Dodson, now liberated from the Calipari doghouse, has made a respectable 38.5% (10-26), and possesses one of the sweetest strokes this side of Chris Lofton; and finally, Patrick Patterson continues to impress with his outside shot by making 6-14 (42.9%).

I don't know when UK's perimeter game ceases to be a cause for concern, but I sense the time is near.

Music City Bowl invite -- While many UK fans are unhappy about returning to Nashville for the third time in four years, I choose instead to celebrate four straight years of UK bowl games. It's a milestone for the program, and a tribute to one of the best senior classes in Kentucky football history.

So many 'Cats had outstanding seasons -- Derrick Locke, Randall Cobb, Micah Johnson, Sam Maxwell, La 'Rod King, and John Conner all produced fantastic individual years. They, as well as the other 'Cats, deserve the full support of the BBN while they do battle with C.J. Spiller and the Clemson Tigers in the Music City Bowl.

Football 'Cats honored -- It was announced Monday that five UK football players were selected by the Associated Press as All-SEC performers -- Randall Cobb: First Team all-purpose player -- Corey Peters: Second Team defensive tackle -- Sam Maxwell: Second Team linebacker -- Derrick Locke: Second Team all-purpose player -- Zipp Duncan: Honorable Mention offensive lineman.

Congratulations to all the 'Cats selected, with one caveat -- Sam Maxwell deserved First Team honors. He was second in the SEC with six interceptions, and he made big play after key play in UK's road victories over Auburn, Georgia, and Vanderbilt. I honestly can't think of another SEC linbacker that I would have rather had.

The Bad

The DeMarcus Cousins in-game pout -- I was the same way at his age -- I allowed (perceived) poor officiating to get in my head.

What Cousins has to realize is: DON'T ALLOW THE OFFICIALS TO BEAT YOU TWICE. It's comparable to a golfer allowing one bad shot to adversely effect his next shot. It's a recipe for pine-time, and unfulfilled potential.

Although I feel confident John Calipari will work his pupil through this flaw in his game, it may take some time. Cousins, afterall, is accustomed to getting all the calls in high school, he's accustomed to bullying his foes, not being on the receiving end of such physical play (and there definitely was an abundance of physical play on Saturday). Well, this ain't high school ball, DeMarcus. Adjust accordingly, and become the beast that is within you.

Underused Patterson -- With the absence of John Wall from the 18:46 mark to the 11:44 mark of the second half, one would expect Patrick Patterson to become that which the offense runs through. Well apparently, one would be wrong.

During that seven minute stretch, Patterson took exactly four shots, with one of those shots being an offensive rebound of his only miss (of that stretch). UK's big man, and best player (if Wall isn't on the floor), simply has to receive more touches if such a predicament faces UK in the future.

I realize Eric Bledsoe was playing erratically at the time, he was ... trying to do too much while Wall was sidelined. But what young Mr. Bledsoe would be wise to remember is that he needs to run the offense through Patterson, ensure the big fella gets his touches, and everything else will open up.

Sam Maxwell's labrum tear and Micah Johnson's omission -- The terrible news out of the Nutter Complex that Sam Maxwell will miss the Music City Bowl was most unpleasant for this UK fan. Maxwell, a senior, played sparingly through his first three years in Lexington, opting to patiently wait his turn in lieu of transferring. And when earning the opportunity to start, the Georgia native put up big numbers, and made game-changing plays. My thanks to Maxwell for a job well done, and good luck at the next level.

Maxwell's senior statistics -- 80 tackles (42 solo) (second on the team), 5.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, six interceptions (second in the SEC), seven pass breakups, and two forced fumbles.

Micah Johnson's omission from the AP All-SEC team is laughable. UK's senior middle linebacker posted 100 tackles (fifth in the SEC) , 6.5 tackles for loss, two pass breakups, and one sack. And he did all of this while battling plantar fasciitis and a bad ankle for most of the year.

The Hilarious

I like John Calipari. I've liked him since he brought his UMass team to Rupp Arena in December of 1991. He impressed me then, and he's impressed me ever since; he's a fine coach, and a great recruiter. A fan can't ask for much more.

But, his "like-ability" quotient shot through the roof Saturday, when after the game he said the following (paraphrasing) -- When I saw where Seth Davis predicted us to lose, I knew we had a chance.

Most UK fans know Seth Davis, and most UK fans don't like Seth Davis. He speaks of that which he doesn't know, and is paid handsomely to do so. Which is why I spewed my just ingested Coca-Cola all over my carpet when Calipari called a spade ... a spade.

Thanks, coach, finally someone with credibility called-out a national media member, and did so without hesitation.

Thanks for reading, and Go 'Cats, beat the Huskies!

Kentucky Basketball: Dear Santa

BigSkyCat — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 15:44:19 -0000

'Tis the season....

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For those of you who have children that still believe in Santa I'm sure you are all too familiar with "Letters to Santa", and if you haven't already done so, I'm sure you are getting ready to help your children write their Christmas lists, stamp the letters, and then get them mailed off to the North Pole. Or perhaps you are a grandparent who is assisting your grandchildren, or maybe you are simply an adult who is still very much a kid at heart and you, too, want to make a list. Either way, it really doesn't matter, the point is that this is the season for making wish lists and they give you the opportunity to see if you have been naughty or nice this past year.

I know that we all regularly post wishes and hopes that we have for our players as that is just what fans do. After a loss we want random things for so-and-so, and since we are a particularly hard-to-please bunch and are never quite satisfied, we even want random things for so-and-so after we win.

I'm a sucker for posts that are relevant now, but posts that are also interesting to look back on, so with that in mind, I thought it would be rather fun if we had all the basketball-related type things that we want for this year's team posted in one neat singular place. That way, in one, two, or maybe even three months down the road we can look back on our lists and not only see what areas of concern were addressed, but which ones might still be lingering.

In keeping with the spirit of the holiday season what better way to make our requests than to ask Santa? Based upon what we have witnessed from our boys up to this point in the season, I'll go first and make my list as to what I would like Santa to bring some of our boys this year in order to help out our team.

Dear Santa,

I am writing to you on behalf of some fabulous members of the Kentucky Wildcats Men's Basketball team. I'm certain that they have all been on their best behavior this year and I happen to think that there are a couple of things that they might need in order for us to have a stellar season. If you could assist them with the following it would be greatly appreciated.

First of all, there is one of our outstanding point guards named Eric Bledsoe. Eric is extremely gifted, appears to be in great physical shape and plays much larger than he actually is. But, one thing that might help our dear Eric at times would be the gift of control when he is in possession of the ball. I would also request that you assist him in the healing of his apparent tendinitis as he is having some pain, and since our Eric has shown great poise down the stretch on more than one occasion in this young season, he really does deserve the reprieve.

Next I would like to talk about one of our big men, Daniel Orton. Daniel has a certain gentleness about him and his demeanor definitely gives me a sense of calmness when he is on the floor. I'm never really worried that he will do anything totally horrible or out of control, but on the reverse side, I would request that that you bring some ferocity and aggression to his game that he could use when the occasion calls for it.

One of the three seniors on this year's squad is Perry Stevenson. Perry's role on this year's team is quite a bit different than it was last year as he is not getting nearly as many minutes as were asked of him last year. Even given Perry's somewhat diminished role, it appears to me that Perry has kept a great head about him and has come in and given good solid minutes and I would ask that you see that he is able to maintain that great attitude and those solid contributions. He is a senior and most surely has a special place on the team.

Next, I want to talk about yet another senior on our current team, the oft-criticized, Ramon Harris. Ramon is another person who goes about his business in rather obscurity and depending on what he does on any given night he is either forgotten about because he did just enough, or he is remembered because he made a mistake. In addition to possibly giving Ramon a bit more of an offensive repertoire, please see to it that he is able to keep up his defensive intensity and also, more importantly, please give Ramon the gift of being able to tune out all of the outside chatter (criticism) and just go about his business.

Now, let's move on to the beloved boy from Kentucky, Darius Miller. Although I think he has made considerable progress from last year, he still has a tendency to disappear, and although I realize not all the boys on our team can be standouts, if you could please see your way into giving Darius some more consistency in his play? Well, that would be awesome.

Next up is our All-American, Patrick Patterson. He is certainly a fan favorite and I have a feeling that he will remain that way long after he has left the confines of the University of Kentucky. He holds so many great qualities and it has truly been a blessing and an honor for him to wear the blue and white. His work ethic is second to none; he is a poster child for not only what you want in a player, but a poster child for what you want in a human. I'm struggling to find anything that Patrick might need as he really does seem to "have it all", already, but if I had to pick something, I guess I would say my one request for Patrick would be that he could embrace more of public leadership role for our team. We do have several youngsters that can only benefit from being around and absorbing the kind of wisdom not to mention the outstanding work ethic that Patrick has. In short, please give Patrick the ability and the know-how to share his wisdom with our youngsters and maintain his extremely high level of on-the-court intensity.

The member of the team who provides us all with plenty of topics for debate due to his incredibly spirited nature, DeMarcus Cousins, is next. Cousins already possesses a really solid foundation to be an excellent player. He has good size, soft hands, and a ridiculous wing span, but I think he is still in need of a few things. For DeMarcus, I would ask that you give him a greater degree of focus, more explosiveness around the basket and the strength to own his shots on offense. Additionally, and probably most importantly, I would request the ability to shoot a decent free throw percentage for DeMarcus. I'm not asking for anything spectacular here, but since he does seem to get fouled an awful lot, a decent, respectable percentage from the charity stripe would really come in handy.

In closing, (and I certainly saved the easiest member for last), I have one teeny-tiny request for John Wall, as well. I'm positive that John really isn't in need of many basketball-related things this year, but I would just ask that he have access to lots and lots of Gatorade, PowerAde, or whatever kind of sports drink he prefers that contain electrolytes so that he can stay properly hydrated.

Sincerely,

BigSkyCat

Now, I realize that I don't have a request for every single player on the team and I know that Darnell, Josh, Jon, Mark and DeAndre are all very deserving of gifts from Santa, as well. I'm also fairly certain that there are quite a lot of things missing from the above letter, but that's where all of you, my fellow fans, come in. My list was just to get things started, and your ideas are now most welcome and certainly encouraged.

Go ‘Cats! : )

Kentucky 68, North Carolina 66 -- Postmortem

Truzenzuzex — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 20:13:22 -0000

More photos » by Ed Reinke - AP

One of many memorable plays by the Great Wall, even though he was less than 100% in the second half.

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Wow, what a game. Thank God I am diligent about exercise, because at my age, these kinds of games are bad for a less than strong heart.

Thanks and well-wishes to North Carolina for a very tough game. The Tar Heels came back from a big deficit in the first half to make this game a nail-biter. Needless to to say, my nails are bleeding all over the place. The Tar Heels showed much better defense in the second half and forced the Wildcats in to a level of turnovers that could have done us in. Kudos to the Tar Heels for a strong effort. Not only that, their presence today allowed UK to set a new Rupp Arena record for attendance.

For Kentucky, this represents a very good win that could have been great -- not because of anything the Tar Heels did, but because UK did not appear to come out ready in the second half. Combined with John Wall's apparent dehydration (I have no doubt he went to the locker room to take an IV), Kentucky and North Carolina literally swapped places at halftime. With UK at 43 points going into the half, who would have believed they would only score 25 points in the second half?

Of course, you can expect a team like North Carolina, a team with many players who know what it's like to play in the NCAA tournament at the highest level, to make a game of it after being uncompetitive in the first half. It will be very galling to UK fans who saw some great basketball in the first half to remember how the 'Cats went out in something less than style.

More after the jump.

Here are my observations:

DeMarcus Cousins has got to learn to control his emotions -- and his foul shots.
It goes without saying that this team is different without John Wall in the game.
Eric Bledsoe showed nerves of steel by making all those free throws at the end.
Patrick Patterson was awesome, but for some reason, we went away from him in the second half.
Dunk on Daniel Orton? Nope.
Ramon Harris continues to amaze with his rebounding and heady play. If he could only score a little more.
Darnell Dodson seems a bit off form, but he contributed some good offensive minutes and made a couple of good defensive plays.
Speaking of defense, this was the best defensive game the 'Cats have played all year.
Seeing North Carolina play at the pace they did was just weird.
Darius Miller vanished in the second half. But he sure was great in the first.
Calipari showed why he is such a winner. I think he out-coached ol' Roy today, and had a big hand in the outcome.
Perry Stevenson made some nice contributions on defense. I wish he could score more.
The best thing about this win was that UK will get better. So will UNC, but I think UK's ceiling is significantly higher.

That's about it for now, I am getting ready for the SEC championship game. This win makes my weekend automatically great. I am tickled to be writing about a win, because I was prepared to write about a loss.

Great win by Kentucky. Not perfect, but in the end, we won the stat that counts the most -- the final score.

UK Basketball: Grading the 'Cats

Ken Howlett — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 01:31:10 -0000

More photos » by Ed Reinke - AP

Early term grades are out, and a celebration is in order.

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With the "soft" portion of the Kentucky schedule now in the rear-view mirror, and dates with No. 10 North Carolina, No. 14 Connecticut, No. 20 Louisville, and Indiana looming large in Big Blue's headlights, it's time to cast a critical eye toward the progress of this youthful edition of the 'Cats. We've all heard and read John Calipari plead for patience with this group ... don't expect too much, too soon, has been his oft-heard mantra. And while I certainly agree this team is an unfinished work of art, following closely the evolution of Cal's (would be) masterpiece is too tempting to toss aside.

For the particulars, follow me after the jump:

The Good-to-Excellent

Overall team shooting -- The 'Cats are currently shooting the ball at an exceptional 51.5% rate of accuracy, good for 10th in the nation. Leading the way by shooting 69.1%, is junior forward Patrick Patterson. Patterson has made 47 of 68 shots, as well as making 38.5%% of this trey attempts (5-13). Patterson's post teammate, freshman DeMarcus Cousins, is shooting 55.8% from the floor (43-77). Freshman guard John Wall has made 55.6% of his shots from the floor (35-63), and big man Daniel Orton at 50.0% (11-22) rounds out the four 50.0%+ shooters (with at least 20 shots taken) UK currently boasts. Close behind that quartet is Darnell Dodson, who's made 15-31 from the field, good for 48.4%. For those concerned with points-per-possession; UK is averaging 1.16, good for 17th in the nation.

Considering two of the 'Cats' primary scoring threats can be found down on the blocks (Patterson, Cousins), one can reasonably expect the teams shooting percentage to remain hovering around the 50.0% mark for most of the year. And so far, the shot selection of the UK guards has been solid, if not spectacular, and shot selection, i.e. taking good shots, is the key to shooting a high percentage. Even though UK's competition ramps up considerably in the coming weeks, if Wall, Dodson, Eric Bledsoe (44.4%), and Darius Miller (40.0%) continue to be selective, and take shots via the offensive game-plan, as well as continue to score easy fast-break baskets, the 'Cats' shooting should continue to be checked off as a positive in the season's ledger.

Coming into the season, the guards' overall shooting was a major concern for most UK fans, ergo, I have to award a well-earned A in this category.

Three-point shooting -- If there was a bigger concern than the overall shooting of UK's freshmen and sophomore guards, it was their potential three-point shooting numbers that most kept UK fans up at night wondering where their Jodie Meeks had gone. Well, as of yet, the troubled minds of the BBN seems to have been fraught with angst for no good reason: With no less than three shooters (taking a minimum of 20 threes) making at least 40.0% of their trey tries (Bledsoe - 52.2%, Dodson - 40.0%, Miller - 40.0%), UK is sporting a very respectable 37.9% three-point shooting percentage. Also getting into the act, as promised, is Patrick Patterson. The big fella is showin' the NBA he has mad range, making five of 13 threes (38.5%) so far this season.

Although it's not yet time to exhale, the perimeter shooting of this group has been a major surprise, especially considering the person thought to be UK's best outside shooter (Dodson) has missed three games. A 37.9% make rate on threes earns this category a solid A.

Offensive rebounding -- Kentucky's big man combination of Patterson (31), Cousins (28), and Orton (10) have combined to grab 69 offensive rebounds in only seven games (a cumulative 9.9 per game). As a team, UK has snagged 21 more offensive boards than their opponents, a welcome change from the numbers we've witnessed over the last few years.

UK's offensive rebound percentage is ranked fourth nationally at 45.9%, but before we throw the boys on the blocks a way-to-go party, keep in mind these numbers were accumulated against inferior, and many times, much smaller front lines than UK will encounter in the coming months. But, as long as they continue to crash the offensive boards aggressively, I feel confident this group will continue to snag more than their share of offensive rebounds.

Fourth nationally ... it doesn't get much better than that. Once again, an A is in order.

Overall rebounding -- As expected, UK is averaging a +12.4 in overall rebounding. With Patterson (10.6), Cousins (8.6 in an average of 20.0 minutes per game), Ramon Harris (4.1 in an average of 16.7 mpg), and Orton (3.3 in an average of 14.7 mpg) crashing the boards with abandon, Kentucky's domination of the glass has been thorough.

As is true with most of the early-season statistics, UK's overall rebounding will be put to a sterner test beginning with Saturday's game against North Carolina. But, posting a +12.4 at any point in the season is certainly commendable, and deserving of another A.

Shot block differential -- Kentucky's big men have blocked a total of 58 shots (8.3 per game), good for first nationally. DeMarcus Cousins (18) and Daniel Orton (12) have led the Big Blue block party to this point in the year. Kentucky's opponents, on the other hand, have blocked only 18 shots (2.6 per game), for an excellent +5.7 differential.

Shot blocking was thought to be a positive for this year's team, and they have not disappointed. Why break the streak ... another A for UK's block monsters.

Overall opponents' field goal shooting -- UK is adeptly holding their opponents to only 36.6% floor shooting, which is good for 20th in the nation. As is true with many of the above categories, this number can be traced back to the level of competition UK has faced thus far, coupled with the effectiveness at guarding the basket UK's big men have displayed to this point in the season.

While I expect the current 36.6% number to rise slightly, a realistic goal of this group should be to hold opponents to sub-40.0% shooting on the season. A solid B+ is much deserved.

Team chemistry -- There are no stats to dissect, no numbers to crunch (except 7-0), but this team seems to like one another. I'm not at practice, but from all reports, the team members' desire to win trumps their desire to put up individual numbers.

This area was a slight concern coming into the season, so a feeling of relief results in a very well-deserved A+.

The Average-to-Below-Average

Turnover differential -- Kentucky is averaging 17.1 turnovers per game, while their opponents are averaging only 14.9 turnovers per game. These numbers are a function of UK's youth, and the fact that the team hasn't displayed the defensive tenacity often related to a John Calipari-coached team. The two primary ball-handlers for the 'Cats, John Wall (4.0 per game) and Eric Bledsoe (4.3 pg), have combined to commit 54 turnovers, which, considering their freshman status and pace of play, aren't terrible numbers, but there is certainly room for improvement, which should come as the players become more experienced and accustomed to the offensive sets.

Considering the 'Cats are going to run with the ball if given the opportunity, somewhere near 14-15 turnovers per game is an acceptable average. And as the team learns and executes Calipari's defensive desires, UK's forced turnovers, otherwise known as steals (currently averaging 7.0 per game), should also increase. But at the moment, the best I can award is a tepid C-.

Free throw shooting -- As a team UK is shooting a mediocre 66.8% from the charity stripe. Only John Wall (80.4%), Eric Bledsoe (88.2%), and Darius Miller (88.9%) are shooting the rock with aplomb from the free throw line.

The Scooby Doo crew is needed to unravel the mystery of Patrick Patterson's sudden shakiness from the line -- Coming into this season, Patterson was 216-287 for his career (75.3%), but this year he's making his free tries at only a 51.7% rate (15-29). Considering Patterson will take upward of 150 free throws on the year, with many of those coming at critical junctures, solving the Patterson free throw puzzle must be done, and soon.

It was heartening to see DeMarcus Cousins make eight of 11 free throws against UNC-Asheville Monday night in Freedom Hall, after he made only 18-36 (50.0%) up to that point in the season. Practice produces confidence, DeMarcus. Thanks for demonstrating that fact live, and in color.

On the plus side of the season ledger is the fact that UK's primary ball-handlers are all shooting their free throws at an excellent rate -- Wall, Bledsoe, and Miller are a combined 60-74 (81.1%).

Calipari's teams have often been plagued by poor free throw shooting, and it cost him a national title two years ago. This season Cal, has at times, made light of the poor free throw shooting this team has demonstrated, but no one will be laughing if their under-performance begins to cost the 'Cats victories. A shaky C- is all that is deserved at this point in the season for UK's (mostly) shaky free throw shooting.

Opponents three-point shooting -- UK ranks 218th in the nation in defending their opponents' three-point shooting, which stands at 35.7%. The horror show looks like this -- Miami - 57.7%, Sam Houston State - 47.4%, Stanford - 35.0%, UNC-Asheville - 40.0%.

Unacceptable ... there really isn't anything else one can say. Sure, UK is young, but youth is not an excuse for failing to get a hand in the shooter's face, or denying the shooter the ball. But, the team will learn defensive rotation in time, as well as the effort it takes to defend competently. Or at least they better, because we all know the three-point shot is the great equalizer. Grade? A well deserved F.

Early December Exam Results

Through seven games this team is showing why so many thought so highly of UK's chances of having a great season. Sure, they've had a couple of close shaves (Miami, Stanford), but with youth comes inexperience, i.e. taking opponents lightly, but as the season progresses, if they mature at an acceptable rate, this team should be very tough to beat regardless of the level of competition.

Freshman summation -- John Wall has been spectacular, if at times a bit too comfortable dribbling the ball; Eric Bledsoe has shown he CAN shoot the ball beyond 15 feet; DeMarcus Cousins is simply ferocious, if a bit too emotional; Darnell Dodson, if he can demonstrate a willingness to play defense, has the chance to be special at the two/three-spot; Daniel Orton has been a solid edtion to the low post with his solid shooting, and timely rebounding (10 offensive boards in only 14.7 mpg); Jon Hood hasn't played enough to render any meaningful words ( four games, 8.5 mpg), except ... I hope the Madisonville native gets a chance to shine.

As the team embarks on the rest of the season, the competition increases exponentially. Losses may be in the offing, but as they continue to learn the system, and learn each other, I expect mostly victories, with a chance for greatness.

Thanks for reading, and Go 'Cats!

Kentucky 94, UNC-Asheville 54 -- Postmortem

Truzenzuzex — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 02:44:25 -0000

More photos » by Ed Reinke - AP

Coach Cal was very animated tonight, and it made an impression on the team.

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Finally, UK has a relatively effortless victory over a markedly inferior team. It has not been that way most of this year.

Our thanks to the UNC-Asheville Bulldogs for putting forth excellent effort tonight versus the Kentucky Wildcats. Everyone knew they are a bit undermanned facing the 'Cats huge front line, but the Bulldogs came out and gave it their all tonight in Freedom Hall. Thanks to the Bulldogs for their hard work.

For Kentucky, this was by far the most complete game they have played all year, and even though it's hard to point to progress versus the Bulldogs, it isn't hard to see that UK is working on a lot of things, and that work is beginning to pay off.

I got the impression from Calipari's half-time interview that the DDM offense is only going to be run part-time this year because of the size of this team. Yes, UK is athletic enough in some ways, but the DDM is an offense that is not really run best by a team that goes 6'11", 6'9", and 6'8" across its front line. I think Calipari realizes that he has to use his size in the post, and the move to a hybrid offense that features more of a traditional motion with some added DDM elements is likely to work much better. It certainly hit on all cylinders tonight.

More after the jump.

Tonights observations are little more than handing out superlatives. Here goes:

What a game by John Wall. What impressed me most all night was not his freakish athleticism, nor his quickness, nor his speed. It was when he found himself one-on-three and instead of trying to score, he pulled the ball back out and waited for his teammates. John Wall is growing up before our eyes.
Patrick Patterson was as he always is -- steady, determined, mature and highly effective.
Eric Bledsoe played under control for the first time all year. Nice to see.
Darnell Dodson was back with his deadeye shooting. Just in time.
How good can DeMarcus Cousins be? Well, we won't really know until he faces top foes, but he was way, way too much for the Bulldogs. Mabye Calipari is making progress with his free-throw shooting, because this game was the best of his career at UK.
Darius Miller is getting better and better, particularly from the perimeter.
Daniel Orton is not quite up to Cousins, but he is still really good and keeps getting better.
I can't say enough about Calipari's intensity in the first half. It clearly motivated the team.
The Wildcats moved the basketball better tonight than they have all year, by far. I have no idea how that will translate to tougher opponents -- hopefully well.
Ramon Harris once again did what he does -- give energy to the defense and pay attention to the little things.
Turnovers vs. assists -- I'm sure that number will be impressive.

Overall, this was by far the best we have seen of our young Wildcats, but the opponent was not strong enough for us to judge how much of this will carry over to the next game. And it is very important that some of it does carry over to Saturday, because North Carolina will be a much bigger test than any other team we have played so far.

Is UK up to the challenge. I think so, but that may be my heart talking.