Vandy HT Thoughts

It looks as though the Wildcats want to send off their senior in style tonight! It never ceases to amaze me how much better this team plays in front of 23,000 blue-blooded UK fans, although at this point in the season, I guess we should all be used to it.

UK has a double-digit lead for two reasons:

• Defensive intensity. The Cats have absolutely hounded John Jenkins, whose only points came off three free throws he got on a bogus foul call. He is forcing shots, he is flailing his legs trying to get calls and he is incredibly frustrated at his lack of scoring opportunities. All credit goes to Doron Lamb and Deandre Liggins, absolute lockdown defense.
• Perfect offensive tempo. We know this team can run the floor, but it is wonderful to see Knight and Lamb slow things up and execute in the half-court offense. I never thought I would say this, but Jones is doing a phenomenal job of creating in the low post. He took (and made) one three, but for the most part, he has pounded the block and taken it to the basket with authority.

There are, however, a few areas of concern heading into the half:

• Ezeli is absolutely dominating us. The guy is a beast, but really? UK's defenders are letting the big man catch the ball on the block with a defender on his back. End of story. Luckily, he is not a great free throw shooter, but if things get tight and they keep feeding Ezeli, it could be another frenetic finish.
• The Cats have made a habit of getting a sizable lead and then letting it slip away this year, and Calipari needs to have his guys playing with some serious intensity right out of the locker room. Kevin Stallings is a good coach, his team will be ready to play, and if UK lets them back into the contest, they will pounce.

Overall, a great half and it looks as though Jorts may go out on a high note tonight!