This is exactly the performance Kentucky fans have been waiting for — a true breakout from the Wildcats’ newest hidden gem.
The player who quietly transferred into Lexington last spring finally delivered the kind of all-around showing that made Mark Pope believe he could fill a major role this season. After flashing sharpshooting potential as a freshman at Tulane, he entered the year carrying expectations of becoming Kentucky’s next perimeter weapon.
On Friday night, he didn’t just meet those expectations — he shattered them.
Following Kentucky’s dominant 88–46 win over Loyola (Md.), Mark Pope praised his emerging weapon for impacting every part of the game, comparing his development to the early-season rise of Koby Brea a year ago.
“He shows up in every category of the stat line… He is a stat stuffer. We need him to be great, and he’s gonna be great by the end of the season,” Pope said.
He emphasized that more physical growth is needed, but the trajectory is clear.
Kentucky’s hidden gem delivered his strongest performance yet: 13 points, nine rebounds, four assists, three steals — and zero turnovers. That’s the type of complete game that coaches rave about and opponents fear.
Even more impressive? He posted a game-high +40, showing just how dominant the Wildcats were with him on the floor.
He shot 5-of-9 from the field, including a buzzer-beating three at halftime that ignited Rupp Arena. It was a confident, poised, eye-opening performance from a player Kentucky hopes will be a major piece moving forward.
This is the emergence fans were waiting for. And with a grueling December stretch approaching, this hidden gem’s rise could not have come at a better time.
