Kentucky Men’s Basketball Postgame Quotes
In a high-scoring game against Marshall, the Kentucky Wildcats were able to secure a victory at Rupp Arena. The UK student-athletes expressed their thoughts on the game, highlighting their offensive prowess and the need to improve on the defensive end.
Reed Shepperd, who contributed significantly to the team’s scoring, reflected on the game and the team’s performance, saying, “That was crazy – we were shooting it well, credit to Marshall they had 80-something. Scoring is really good, we got a bunch of dudes that can score. We got to get more connected on the defensive end and keep their numbers lower and keep staying at that. It was a super fun game– Marshall is a really good team and we were hitting shots, moving the ball so it was really, really good.”
Shepperd also acknowledged DJ’s impact on the team, stating, “I knew he would – it’s nothing new for him he’s a really, really good player. It’s helped a lot now we have eight dudes that can just go and get a bucket and that’s really, really hard to guard when you go out on the court all five dudes no matter what can pass, dribble, and shoot– so it helps a lot. Now we just got to keep building off of it and just keep playing together and stay positive through it all.”
Shepperd emphasized his willingness to contribute in various ways to help the team win, saying, “Yea for sure – anything I can do to help the team win. If I have to go out and score zero points and do the little things then that’s perfectly fine as long as we come out with the win.”
Rob Dillingham acknowledged the team’s high-scoring performance but also highlighted the need to improve defensively, saying, “Well, we got to stay disciplined throughout the second half even though we won by a lot, we got to learn to not give up so many points.”
Dillingham also commented on the team’s achievement of scoring the most points in a game during the Coach Cal era, recognizing the offensive prowess but emphasizing the need for defensive improvement.
The players appreciated the positive feedback from Coach Calipari but understood the importance of addressing defensive issues. D.J. Wagner expressed his focus on team success rather than individual achievements, stating, “I wasn’t really focused on the way I played individually. That’s never the focus. I was just happy that we were able to win games. Everybody could see how good of a team that we’ve got. We still do. I’m confident in my teammates and they’re confident in me.”
When asked about the team’s enjoyment during games, Wagner confirmed that they were having fun. He highlighted the team’s chemistry and unity in playing together and winning.
Wagner also discussed the importance of confidence in shooting, stating, “I feel like it’s important to be confident on the first shot. Every shot you take you should think it’s going in. That’s basketball. It’s 80 percent mental, 20 percent the other stuff. Just staying confident.”
Regarding extra time spent in the gym, Wagner mentioned that all the players were dedicated to improving their skills and that their hard work was paying off.
Marshall Head Coach Dan D’Antoni acknowledged the Wildcats’ strong performance, giving credit to Kentucky for their excellent passing and shooting. He recognized the improvement in the team’s playing style under Coach Calipari and praised their skills.
D’Antoni explained that his team’s preparation for the game was limited due to recent travel and schedule constraints. He emphasized the growth and potential of his own team, believing that they can compete with Kentucky in the future.
Marshall student-athletes Obinna Anochili-Killen and Nate Martin also commented on the game, expressing their disappointment in the loss but also acknowledging Kentucky’s strengths. Anochili-Killen shared his eagerness to return to the court after being unable to play with the team for five days. Martin praised Kentucky’s guards for their ability to penetrate the defense and create scoring opportunities.
Overall, the postgame quotes highlighted the Wildcats’ offensive firepower, the need for defensive improvement, and the respect Marshall had for Kentucky’s performance. The players and coaches expressed confidence in their abilities and vowed to continue working hard to achieve success.
