For much of the season, Kentucky’s biggest issue hasn’t been effort or talent — it’s been consistency at the point guard spot. Turnovers, rushed possessions, and stretches of offensive chaos have cost the Wildcats momentum in key moments.
But now, Mark Pope may have found the missing piece Kentucky desperately needed.
Denzel Aberdeen’s recent emergence at point guard has brought a calm and control that simply wasn’t there before. Over his last four games, Aberdeen has tallied 16 assists to just three turnovers — a remarkable stretch for a player who didn’t even begin the season as a natural floor general.
When Kentucky was struggling to value possessions, Aberdeen became the steady hand. He slowed the game down. He made the simple pass. He avoided the risky play. And in doing so, he gave the Wildcats something they’ve been searching for: reliability.
Pope hasn’t held back his praise.
“Well, listen. I mean, he’s been a top-level point guard in this league,” Pope said recently. “Which is incredible considering that he didn’t walk into the season as a point guard. It’s really hard to do. I’m so proud of him, and he continues to grow every single game.”
That growth has been visible. Aberdeen looks more comfortable initiating the offense, reading defenses, and knowing when to attack versus when to distribute. There are still moments where he over-drives or forces a tough shot — and over that same four-game stretch he shot 23-of-58 from the floor — but his decision-making with the basketball has drastically improved.
And that’s the key.
Kentucky doesn’t necessarily need Aberdeen to score 20 every night. They need him to manage the game, protect possessions, and create quality looks for teammates. If his shooting efficiency ticks up even slightly, his overall impact becomes even more dangerous.
With Vanderbilt up next and postseason positioning on the line, the Wildcats will once again look to Aberdeen to control the tempo and keep the offense steady.
