Friday and Saturday this week, UK Wildcats Basketball held open practices. This is a quick run down of observations from those practices.
- Fundamentals are the name of the game early. The team needs a little work on their layup drills, specifically with leading their teammate in passes and making two hand catches. Calipari mentioned, “We will not lose a game because of a one-handed catch because he will not be in the game.”
- Marcus Lee showing that he has some leadership ability on the court. Calling out his teammates for good passes and good hustle, this wasn’t just Lee but he stood out. This will be a good asset during the season, because Lee’s height can help him see above the defense and help instruct the younger guys on what to do.
- Charles Matthews, during a drill, took two dribbles to the lane and hit a jumper from the SEC logo. Cal acknowledges with, “If you do that, you’re going to play,” then added, “If you do fancy dribbling and don’t go, you’ll be sitting with me.” A few drills later, Matthews skies for an offensive rebound, came down then went right back up to slam it home. Calipari told him, “If you do that offensive rebounding, you’re going to see the floor. You’re a finisher.” Matthews can really get up on the rim.
- Funny Moment: Calipari says Skal was fouled so he had him go to the line. As Skal dribbled, Cal blew his whistle, to which Skal stopped and turned around. He dribbled again, and again Cal blew his whistle, to which Skal turned to look at Cal with a confused look across his face. This is when he realized Calipari was trying to distract him from the shot. So Skal dribbles a couple more times while Calipari is blowing his whistle in the background. Swish! As Skal turns around Calipari yells, “Alright, he wasn’t fouled.”
- Alex Poythress is participating in five on five drills this weekend, and it is nice hearing that he is back at it. He caught a lob in transition for a dunk, and jumped up to tip in a missed 3 later on, which got praise from his teammates and Calipari. He is still not 100%, but getting closer everyday.
- Skal Labissiere will be problems for all comers this season. He has got some moves down low, good pivots and speed. Able to catch the ball at the free throw line, make a couple moved to the basket or take a jump shot if you give him room. He is going to be a lot of fun to watch.
To read more about the practice, head over to CoachCal.com for the full article.
