Summer workouts are heating up in Lexington, and while the highlight clips and scrimmage footage get the buzz, it’s the behind-the-scenes analytics that are causing serious whispers inside the program.
According to sources close to the team, internal data tracking from recent practices has revealed some surprising trends that could shake up Kentucky’s rotation heading into the fall.
SURPRISE SHOOTER EMERGING
While fans have been focused on the big-name scorers, it’s freshman Jayden Quaintance who’s quietly lighting up the efficiency charts. One assistant coach reportedly said:
> “Every time we run the numbers, his name is near the top. He’s hitting over 48% from three in scrimmage sets and his decision-making is elite.”
With Kentucky leaning toward a spacing-heavy offense under Mark Pope, don’t be surprised if Quaintance carves out major minutes early — even as one of the youngest players on the roster.
CONCERN FOR A GUARD?
On the other hand, one projected starter has reportedly posted the highest turnover rate in half-court drills. Coaches aren’t panicking — yet — but ball security has become a point of emphasis in recent practices.
Fans online are speculating it could be one of the high-usage transfers, who may be adjusting to Pope’s quicker, more read-and-react system.
SHOOTING WOES FROM AN UNEXPECTED NAME
Another eyebrow-raiser: a veteran known for his midrange game has struggled in shooting drills, reportedly going 2-for-15 in spot-up corner threes over two tracked practices.
One analyst noted:
> “It’s early, but that corner three is a staple in Pope’s offense. If he can’t hit it, he might slide down the depth chart.”
WHO’S DOMINATING THE GRIT STATS?
No shocker here: Mo Dioubate leads the team in loose-ball recoveries, second-chance points, and contested rebounds per scrimmage.
“He’s just everywhere,” a staffer said. “We track hustle plays, and he’s in double digits every time.”
STOCK WATCH: TRENDING UP
Jayden Quaintance – Elite shooting metrics, strong assist/turnover ratio
Collin Chandler – Best on/off splits in scrimmages, top defender efficiency
Somto Cyril – Highest block percentage AND lowest foul rate among bigs
STOCK WATCH: NEEDS IMPROVEMENT
Unnamed guard – Turnover issues slowing offensive rhythm
Stretch forward – Outside shot not falling consistently
Wing defender – Defensive rotations late in 3 of 4 scrimmages tracked
Bottom Line
It’s still early, but analytics are already influencing the coaching staff’s decisions. In Pope’s system — where data meets discipline — players who perform efficiently are going to earn time, regardless of hype.
