Kentucky basketball never sleeps, even in the midst of their off-season. The wildcats have once again lost multiple players to the First round of the NBA Draft, but have reloaded yet again for the start of the 2019-2020 regular season. Let’s take a look at some additions and marque players coming in to Lexington to help Kentucky basketball make a run for Championship number nine.
Ashton Hagans
Even with the talent John Calipari reeled in this year, it’s going to be up to Sophomore, Ashton Hagans, how far Kentucky can go in March. March Madness is dependent on the spectacular play of Guards, which is where Hagans struggled last year. Hagans is a great defender but lacks to ability to create his own shot at times and struggles to hit jump shots from all ranges. If the former Georgia High School Player of the Year can figure out the scoring part of his game, the wildcats will be a tough team to take down.
Johnny Juzang
The 6’7″ Forward has the coolest name in college basketball with a cool game to back it up. This four-star recruit can stretch the floor and bang inside with the best in the business. Juzang averaged just under 20 points per game on 43% from the field. Juzang also shot over 35% from behind the arc with 80% from the line as well. The Californian is also a tenacious rebounder and defender. This will serve John Calipari very well as Juzang can play multiple positions efficiently.
Tyrese Maxey
Tyrese Maxey is a 6’3″ Combo Guard that will likely start at the “2 Guard” this season for the wildcats. Maxey is a five-star recruit from Texas who can score the ball anyway you’d like. The slippery Guard has the speed, moves, and shooting ability to cause most college teams problems next year. However, if Ashton Hagans struggles going into next season, don’t be surprised if you see Maxey running Point for Calipari.
Kahlil Whitney
Kahlil Whitney is a 6’6″ freak athlete with the body type of Kevin Durant. He’s tall, slim, and very athletic. Whitney can shoot the ball well and has the ability to take other forwards down in the post and cause mismatches. The five-star from New Jersey has the length and speed to cause havoc on both sides of the ball and is a very important part of how successful the cats will be. Whitney averaged just under 20 points per game and six rebounds last year.
Keion Brooks
Keion Brooks could turn into something very special for John Calipari and company. This five-star Forward has the ability to play both Forward spots and can even slip in as shooting Guard at times. Brooks is very long and athletic, standing at 6’7″ and 185 pounds. The Indiana native can also defend every position except for taller Centers. If Brooks can develop a consistent jumper from behind the arc, he could be one of the better players in the whole nation.
Other Notables
Grad-Transfer Nate Sestina from Bucknell. He is big body that can stretch the floor and defend other bigs. Look for Sestina to play a huge role in John Calipari’s offense. Nick Richards and E.J. Montgomery both decided to come back to school after receiving feedback from NBA scouts. Nick Richards will probably start at the Center, but both are big, athletic bodies that will be critical for defensive and rebounding purposes this upcoming year. In conclusion, kentucky basketball will be a force to be reckoned with once again.
