With 5 rounds in the books, here’s my analysis so far.
Without naming names, need look no further than Rupp’s early championship teams to see that the emphasis has been on modern players. The only pre-1960 player chosen was my first round selection of Cliff Hagan. Louie Dampier and Dan Issel are the only pre-1970 players taken. That said, these posters have all shown great basketball knowledge with their choices. I don’t see a single team that makes me say “eww, glad I don’t have that team.” Lots of attention is being paid to chemistry and team makeup, as evidenced by @DraftCat’s Last picks. I was looking at his team saying “eek, great players but no scoring from the guard spots.” Then he drafts Dillingham and Fitch with consecutive picks.
My favorite teams so far…
@Son_Of_Saul Yikes. Wall & Cuz anchoring the 1 and 5 around Meeks, Reeves, & PJ is frightening.
@RunninRichie my only question for his team was who he’d pick as his big man and he got an all-American in Rick Robey.
@JHannibalSmith I love the electricity of Chapman & Mercer at the 2 and 3 spots and McCarty is the perfect complimentary piece at the 4.
Steals of the draft…
Tony Delk at 8 was crazy. I considered him at #4 easily a top 5 UK player of all time.
Keith Bogans at 19. He’s the fourth leading scorer is school history. I had him pegged as a borderline first/second rounder.
Kevin Grevey in the 5th round. I know we’re shying away from older players but wow. All-American scoring machine guard who could rebound.
All in all though, there haven’t been a whole lot of big surprise picks or reaches because I think we all kinda know our stuff. Kentucky fans just have a good knowledge of their history. The next few rounds will be really interesting as we choose our role players and fill any needs. It’s been a blast so far fellas. Let’s keep a’goin!