We’ve likely seen one of the most impressive performances from a Kentucky player in years. Kentucky head coach John Calipari had little to say about Antonio Reeves’ 37-point performance in Saturday’s win against Arkansas, but others were buzzing about it. Reeves went 11-for-11 at the foul line and 12-for-17 from the field, making just two of four 3-point shots. Despite this, he still managed to rack up an impressive 37 points, making him the highest-scoring Razorback opponent since 2009. Arkansas coach Eric Musselman was impressed with Reeves’ game and described it as one of the best he has seen in his time coaching at Arkansas.
Reeves’ performance was a lifesaver for Kentucky, as the team lacked a true point guard to play. Kentucky all-American center Oscar Tshiebwe praised Reeves for saving them from sinking. Reeves also avoided committing a disastrous fifth foul, finishing the game with four fouls and just one turnover in all 40 minutes of the game.
Reeves’ defensive game was also impressive, forcing Arkansas guard Devo Davis to pick up two technical fouls and get ejected from the game. Kentucky Radio Network analyst Jack Givens was particularly impressed with Reeves’ defensive game and named him his defensive player of the game. Reeves’ stellar performance is expected to give Kentucky momentum for postseason play. This career-high scoring game, which included eight games with 20 or more points, was the third highest in the Calipari era and the most for a UK player in a true road game under Calipari.
Will Reeves continue the hot streak into the post-season? We will find out next week when the Cats begin SEC play on Thursday as a #3 seed.
Game 10 Of SEC Tournament On Thursday: No. 3 Kentucky vs. Game 6 winner, 9:30 p.m.*, SEC Network
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