Mark Pope, Kentucky Basketball players respond to South Carolina’s victory: Defense Focus and Key Returns – Wildcat Blue Nation

Kentucky bounced in the dominant fashion on Saturday afternoon, defeating South Carolina 80-57 in Rupp Arena. After several heavy losses, Wildcats made a statement with its energy, intensity of defense and the return of key players. After the match, chief trainer Mark Pope, Kentucky players and South Carolina Lamont Paris coach all worked for the performance. Ukathletics quotes

Mark Pope praises the growth of his team

Mark Pope was excited about how his team reacted against a difficult South Carolina team, especially in the protective end.

“I thought our boys were really focused on their bigger part. We had some gaps and we could get much better, but they were starting to be a little more destructive and slightly more aggressive at the time of attack, “Pope said.

He specifically emphasized Kobi Brea’s defense efforts, calling him “incredible” for his ball pressure, positioning and complete awareness.

“Our rotations were good in the process of growing. But Kobi was incredible in the protective end. His gaps were incredible, his digging was incredible. His pressure in the ball was great – March, not belligerent, “Pope added.

Another major impetus to Kentucky was the return of Lamont Butler, who had missed time due to injury. Pope admitted that he was not sure if Butler would be available until the day of the game, but was relieved to return it.

– Only his presence. We just glued it and roll it there. But his presence really helped us for sure. “

Players reflect on the protective focus and energy

Otega Oweh: You bounce strong

Oue, who finished with double figures, credits the team’s defense commitment to his success.

“I felt great and the way we made it, better play defense, play better defense protection, just helping the helper and have a back on each other. We worked all week and I’m proud of the things we did tonight, “OE said.

He also talks about how Butler’s return he loaded the team.

“Oh, it was huge. Only his presence helps us so much, offensive, defensive. I want to say that I asked him every day since he was out if he was playing, so I’m just glad he had to compare today. “

KOBY BREA: Set tone

Brea is working to improve her protective mentality and this showed up against South Carolina.

“I work a lot on my mentality and what I have to do after the last few games. I’m just trying to adjust the tone at the beginning that we’ll get better defensive and we will conclude in this, “Brea said.

For what made the difference in the team’s defense energy, Brea pointed out an awareness that the efforts of each player were affecting the entire team.

“With the last few losses, we have realized (defensive) one person can affect the whole group. As a team, we all have to lock ourselves and I put how I play with the most meaning. “

Brandon Garrison: hugging the energy

Garrison provided a spark from the bench and continues to grow in his role.

“I just felt great. Continue to put into work and get good results, “he said.

On the return of Butler Garrison, Oue’s feelings sounded.

“We were missing. When we are there, you can say that returning it does basic things for our team. Its return allows us to have more thefts, faster response and increasing confidence. “

Pope also had a high praise for Garrison’s progression.

“He was really effective and explosive with his immersion game. I thought he was great with his defensive task tonight. He prepares for large, big jumps. “

South Carolina Lamont Paris Coach: “They were then”

Lamont Paris of South Carolina acknowledged Kentucky’s protective intensity and energy, but also said that his team struggles ended in the rim.

“There was a big crowd and a great environment, but it could be expected. We just couldn’t keep the pace offensive. And we couldn’t take shots, ”Paris said.

He noted on Kentucky’s defense pressure: “They were active. They pressed some of our boys who may not be so strong with the ball. They were after that. “

Pope takes coaching, bench production and the importance of winning

Pope also took the time to discuss his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of the “great students” for the success of the team.

“What really makes great coaches – is just like great teachers. Great students are hungry and passionate, willing and humble and curious, “he explained.

He also praised the sequence and energy of Trent Noah from the bench.

“His energy never breaks down and it’s a real gift as a coach. You know exactly what you will get when you put a trend on the floor. “

Most importantly, Pope acknowledged the importance of this victory after a difficult section of games.

“It means a lot. This is really important to us. Every game is the biggest game we’ve ever played. But as you went through the season, it was important to us in many ways. “

As Wildcats find their rhythm in defense and key players return to the squad, Kentucky’s prospects for the rest of the season seem much more bright.