Cal has somewhat of a reputation of getting players ready for the next level. My question: is that really true?
Yes, UK has plenty of former players in the NBA. But, is that because Cal prepared them or they were just that physically talented?
Consider:
1. Very few former Cats hit the NBA and make a splash immediately. Most of them that stick around begin to show their stuff in years 3+. Other programs have rookies who look like they belong almost immediately.
2. Obviously the UK players aren't taught much about fundamentals. As seasons wear on, we see the same poor shot selection, defensive lapses, inability to adapt to in-game situations, no ability to attack or play a zone defense, unwillingness to block out effectively, etc.
3. UK does not play an NBA system - how is our system preparing them for the next level?
I've heard this comment about Cal a long time but I'm not sure it's accurate. He recruits NBA level talent but it's almost always several years into their pro career before they blossom. Perhaps the OAD philosophy is to blame. But even the few players who stick around for several years don't seem to improve with age (there are some exceptions).
Yes, UK has plenty of former players in the NBA. But, is that because Cal prepared them or they were just that physically talented?
Consider:
1. Very few former Cats hit the NBA and make a splash immediately. Most of them that stick around begin to show their stuff in years 3+. Other programs have rookies who look like they belong almost immediately.
2. Obviously the UK players aren't taught much about fundamentals. As seasons wear on, we see the same poor shot selection, defensive lapses, inability to adapt to in-game situations, no ability to attack or play a zone defense, unwillingness to block out effectively, etc.
3. UK does not play an NBA system - how is our system preparing them for the next level?
I've heard this comment about Cal a long time but I'm not sure it's accurate. He recruits NBA level talent but it's almost always several years into their pro career before they blossom. Perhaps the OAD philosophy is to blame. But even the few players who stick around for several years don't seem to improve with age (there are some exceptions).