The Kentucky Wildcats barely pulled off the win against the UCF Knights inside Rupp Arena, going 3-0 in their exhibition slate. With a full new roster, it is no shock the Cats have struggled to get rolling.
However, it’s been somewhat shocking to see the backcourt struggle in these first three games.
As the game came down to the wire, Mason Williams took the lead in the backcourt, just as he has done in the three preseason games.
While that’s been nice to see, transfer point guard Zoom Diallo still has some work to do.
Diallo, who was signed by Kentucky to be the starting point guard, has looked alright in the playmaking department, especially when getting shots for his teammates. His 14 assists were tied with Malachi Moreno for the team lead in the preseason.
The message we heard some this summer, though, about too much dribbling, hasn’t changed. That is one of the major reasons we are seeing some offensive struggles. That included a 2/9 shooting performance vs. UCF, as he finished with a mere four points and missed his only free-throw attempt.
Thankfully, head coach Mark Pope still has faith in his junior point guard.
“Zoom, like, all of our guys are learning a new way to play, and it’s actually inspiring to watch them learn and grow,” said Pope after Wednesday’s overtime win over UCF. “Zoom is trying to make his game as simple and forceful as he can. He’s got a chance to be an elite-level floor general for us.
“He’s seen a new challenge in all three games, and I’m telling you, he’s gonna have big moments for us and make huge contributions.”
The talent is there with Diallo, a former top-50 prospect who showed plenty of flashes at Washington. Once he gets it rolling, this team and offense will be another unit.
But with preseason play over, the BBN will be hoping it comes rather quickly.