Smother Time

Kentucky has had a VERY solid season to date defensively. The multiple block parties that the Cats have thrown both in conference, and in early season games have been impressive. But the smothering act that UK put on Tennessee Tuesday night was some next-level stuff.

Granted, your boy Renaldo Woolridge kinda went off from three-point land in the first half, but that situation was quickly rectified. And even accounting for those deep bombs, the Vols were merely 9 of 32 for the half. It was interesting to me that they got up that many attempts (13 more shots than Kentucky, but 4 fewer makes). But frankly, a lot of those nasty-orange shots would have to be properly filed under the category of either "altered" or "ill-advised"....if not "downright desperate".

UK just has a way of making teams look terrible in the half-court. It's the athleticism of the team that gets a lot of credit for this, since I would say our "starting six" are built like basketball players ought to be built, straight from God's basketball player factory. Are they quick? Check. Long? Check. Are they in terrific shape? Check. Can they jump? Double check.

Perhaps somewhat overlooked is how well they help each other on drives....and I'm not strictly talking about shot-blocking here. The weak-side defender (unless he's Kyle Wiltjer *cough*) is almost always able to cheat over and protect the lane while still keeping an eye on his own man and protecting against the open jumper. Again, the quickness and the long arms help, but a lot of that is just good coaching and basketball smarts.

No they aren't perfect-- they still give up some open looks and the rare back door cut, but when you're holding teams in the 20s and 30s % range on FGAs, well, you're really doing something.

Consider me a BIG fan.

But really it's the effort and desire that have been more impressive. That's what truly stands out with a group of All-American types that would probably rather be catching their breath on the defensive end. Calipari has not allowed that from this bunch. They look like they are feeding off of the blocks, keeping their knees bent and sliding with their man, learning to communicate like they are all seniors....again, next-level stuff.

Admittedly, the competition hasn't been all that stellar recently, but that will quickly change throughout February. But Kentucky is a legit #1, and they are going to remain extra-tough to knock off when they throw that smother blanket out there.