Kentucky’s three-point shooting has been a rollercoaster ride this season, with significant fluctuations in performance. The Wildcats have consistently aimed for 30 three-point attempts per game, but their success rate has varied widely. In their early matchups, Kentucky showed promise, shooting 45.8% against Wright State (11-24) and 48.0% against Lipscomb (12-25). However, their shooting dipped in later games, including a tough stretch where they shot just 25.9% against Clemson (7-27) and 26.9% against Georgia State (7-26).
Despite these struggles, Kentucky’s head coach Mark Pope remains focused on the bigger picture: the volume of shots. “Thirty 3-pointers is our target each game, but I’d like to hit 35,” Pope explained after the Wildcats’ win over Colgate. He sees this as a measure of their offensive movement and aggressiveness. When Kentucky hits their mark, it means they are pushing the pace, moving well off the ball, and creating open shots.
The Wildcats’ 32.3% shooting performance (10-31) against Colgate showed signs of improvement, especially after a frustrating four-game stretch where their shooting volume dipped. During that period, Kentucky also lost one of their top shooters, Kerr Krissa, to a broken foot. “We lost one of our catalysts,” Pope admitted. “Our volume was down, but getting back over 30 attempts was a step in the right direction.”
While consistency remains a challenge, Kentucky’s commitment to their three-point shooting philosophy is clear. Pope believes that their offensive energy and movement will eventually help the Wildcats find their shooting rhythm again.
