Photo by Chet White, courtesy of UK Athletics
When Kevin Knox surprised everyone and picked Kentucky last spring, fans knew it was a big addition to the Wildcats recruiting class. Fast forward seven months later and it’s scary to think what this team would look like without number five on the floor.
Entering the season, John Calipari stated that he had no idea who the go-to guy would be when the Wildcats were in a pinch. The UK coach got his answer during the last two games, as Knox elevated his play when his team was spiraling out of control.
Last night, the UK freshman dropped a game-high 20 points on 8-of-13 shooting, including finishing second on the team in rebounds with seven. It is clear how important Knox is to this team when you look at the 37 minutes he played. Diallo played the second most minutes of any UK player with 30.
The Wildcats called the freshman’s number in crucial situations all game. Knox scored 9 points to close the first half, as the Wildcats trailed by one-point at the intermission. However, at times he went quiet or would shy away for multiple possessions. That is something he will learn and figure out as the season progresses because he shouldn’t go multiple possessions without a touch.
With 6:34 remaining in the game, Knox’ jumper tied the game at 53. He tied the game again on the next possession with another smooth jumper. The two teams traded buckets for a couple of minutes before Kansas built a four-point lead on a three from Malik Newman. Knox answered again, this time with a finish at the rim to get the Wildcats to within two.
Trailing 61-59, Calipari was in the situation he discussed during the preseason. Late in the game, needing a guy to go to in a pinch, Knox was the guy to get the call but the Jayhawks forced him into a tough two that was off the mark.
Knox missed the shot to tie the game but you can’t fault him because he was the reason Kentucky had a chance. He was the only Wildcat to knock down an outside shot, finishing 3-of-6 from long range.
The question after last night is where does Kentucky go after Knox? If Knox has an off night, the Cats may be doomed. Outside of his 3-of-6 performance from three, the rest of the Wildcats were 0-7. Diallo was the only other UK player to finish in double figures with 14 points but the freshman guard shot just 4-of-11 from the field, including 0-3 from three-point range.
Freshmen Quade Green and PJ Washington both struggled offensively. Green registered six points while Washington missed all three of his field goal attempts to go along with four turnovers. Washington is too good to attempt only three shots and grab just two rebounds.
Despite the struggles, Kentucky had chances to win the game, which is a good sign. Kansas is a talented, experienced team but if the Wildcats can get a few questions answered, they have more upside than the Jayhawks. For that to happen, Knox can’t be the only guy knocking down shots.
