Kentucky Basketball: 3 takeaways from Wildcats season-opener loss to Duke
1. Oscar Tshiebwe will win the Wildcats some games this year
Oscar Tshiebwe proved to be the biggest factor in the frontcourt for Kentucky basketball and put a lot of scouts on notice in the process. He set aside any doubt that his quick jump from West Virginia to Lexington wouldn’t pan out.
Tshiebwe was another player in the Wildcats rotation that finished with a double-double, despite the result. He posted 17 points and 19 rebounds (12 offensive) along with two blocks to show off his prowess in the frontcourt.
He proved to be a factor in the paint for Kentucky basketball as he racked up every loose ball and offensive rebound that came his way and made the most of his night while battling through foul trouble in the first half.
Tshiebwe is a strong, physical presence that will win the Wildcats some games with his ability to snag offensive boards and protect the rim. In his first test against the Blue Devils, he held his own and then some against a deep squad and even outrebounded them offensively with his 12 boards. Duke recorded nine offensive rebounds.
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It will be interesting to see how Kentucky basketball looks to get Tshiebwe more touches going forward. As they do, look for their win-total to climb at a high rate.