This year, Kentucky basketball and Black Friday share a common goal: finding the perfect pieces to ensure success. Just as shoppers look for deals on gifts or electronics, Mark Pope and his Wildcats are seeking ways to fine-tune their game for a championship run. With the season in full swing, Pope’s “shopping list” highlights what Kentucky needs to peak by March.
Here’s what Pope has on his wish list:
1. Rebounding: The Must-Have Doorbuster
Offensive rebounding tops Pope’s list. “We’d like to be a 30% offensive rebounding percentage team,” he said, which equates to about 14 offensive boards per game. While the Wildcats aren’t hitting that mark yet, improving in this area could help them dominate possessions. With so many three-point attempts leading to long rebounds, securing more of those second chances could supercharge Kentucky’s offense.
2. Turnovers: Handle With Care
Turnovers are like fragile new gadgets—Kentucky needs to minimize mishaps. Averaging about 10 turnovers per game isn’t bad, but reducing that number even further could elevate their offensive efficiency. Pairing better ball control with stronger rebounding would make the Wildcats an offensive powerhouse as competition heats up.
3. Consistent Defensive Communication
Strong defensive communication is non-negotiable for Pope. “You can do it once, but can you do it every time down the floor?” he said during a recent call-in show. Consistency on defense will be crucial, especially against SEC powerhouses like Alabama and Auburn, both of which boast high-powered offenses.
4. Unlimited 3-Point Shooting
Another top priority for Pope: more three-point attempts—ideally 35 per game. Kentucky’s shooters have the green light, and their ability to stretch defenses with consistent accuracy could be a game-changer. The message is clear: keep firing, Wildcats!
5. Amari Williams’ Development
Amari Williams is central to Kentucky’s offense, often facing double teams and complex defensive strategies. Pope stressed the importance of his continued growth, noting that with each game, Williams learns and adapts to new challenges. His improvement could be key to the team’s success.
Bonus Items for Success
Kentucky leads the nation in defensive rebounds, averaging 35 per game, a solid foundation that has helped the team navigate growing pains. With a relatively new roster still building chemistry, this strength has anchored their progress.
As Pope puts it, “It’s a race to the Final Four.” If the Wildcats can address these areas, they’ll be serious contenders come March Madness.
