For UK and those not named Oscar, its Jacob Toppin everyone is raving about the most. He's now 6'10 and looks stronger. There's serious optimism within the team that he is going to have a breakout year.
Coming in at a close 2nd is Antionio Reeves. His adjustment to SEC pace, size and length has been undeniably quicker than Kellan Grady last season, who was a step behind until October. Reeves has impressed as a three-level scorer capable of creating for himself, with his size (6-foot-6) allowing the staff to get creative with his usage.
The two freshmen, Cason Wallace and Chris Livingston, have also been pleasant surprises, specifically from a physical standpoint. They are both college-ready and have been immediate contributors on both ends of the floor in practice. Wallace has shot better than anticipated and has lived up to his billing as a vicious defender. He will also split point guard duties with Sahvir Wheeler, thriving as a willing facilitator and playmaker rather than focusing solely on scoring as an off-ball guard. As for Livingston, his versatility and physicality has opened the door for playing time at the three and small-ball four, essentially as a fourth guard on offense. He gets downhill and finishes through contact well around the basket, but also shoots it well enough to keep defenders uncomfortable out on the perimeter. Both players will produce early.
CJ Frederick has just started light practicing and is planning to play in The Bahamas. Team mates have commented, he just doesn't miss.
Savir has lost weight and is quicker.
Link
Coming in at a close 2nd is Antionio Reeves. His adjustment to SEC pace, size and length has been undeniably quicker than Kellan Grady last season, who was a step behind until October. Reeves has impressed as a three-level scorer capable of creating for himself, with his size (6-foot-6) allowing the staff to get creative with his usage.
The two freshmen, Cason Wallace and Chris Livingston, have also been pleasant surprises, specifically from a physical standpoint. They are both college-ready and have been immediate contributors on both ends of the floor in practice. Wallace has shot better than anticipated and has lived up to his billing as a vicious defender. He will also split point guard duties with Sahvir Wheeler, thriving as a willing facilitator and playmaker rather than focusing solely on scoring as an off-ball guard. As for Livingston, his versatility and physicality has opened the door for playing time at the three and small-ball four, essentially as a fourth guard on offense. He gets downhill and finishes through contact well around the basket, but also shoots it well enough to keep defenders uncomfortable out on the perimeter. Both players will produce early.
CJ Frederick has just started light practicing and is planning to play in The Bahamas. Team mates have commented, he just doesn't miss.
Savir has lost weight and is quicker.
Link
