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Takeaways from Oscar Tshiebwe’s Return Press Conference

Published

3 years ago

on

UK Athletics

On Wednesday, Oscar Tshiebwe announced a return to Kentucky on SportsCenter. Making for the first time in the Calipari era that the team’s best player has returned, giving the Big Blue Nation good reason to be excited next season.

On Friday, the unanimous Player of the Year held a press conference to talk about his decision and

Let’s take a look at what he had to say.

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What sort of feedback did you get from NBA people?

“The feedback I got from the NBA was like, ‘Oscar if you can expand your game from outside, make one or two three-pointers per game, attack the rim, make your passes, get better dribbling, you’ll be good and in good position next year.”

On if John Calipari will let him shoot threes, Tshiebwe said, “He told me he will let me shoot threes as long as I keep making them”. He also noted that he has already begun working on his outside shot in workouts and pickup games.

Tshiebwe doesn’t believe the challenge is too great to add a perimeter game to his already elite inside game, saying, “I don’t think it’s going to be bad, because I’m still going to do exactly what I do, but sometimes just go out there [perimter], especially when coaches play two bigs.”

Joining the team in early 2021, Tshiebwe worked out for 8 months straight and became the National Player of the Year. Tshiebwe believes by starting to put in the work now, his game can be on a”different level” come November.

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Now that people know what you’re capable of, what are the expectations for you coming back?

Prior to the season, Tshiebwe set a lofty goal of averaging 20+ rebounds per game. People didn’t take it too seriously, not knowing what to expect from the West Virginia transfer.

While he didn’t average 20, Tshiebwe averaged 15.2 rebounds per game, becoming just the second player to do so since 1980 en route to becoming the unanimous Player of the Year.

Now knowing what “Big O” is capable of, expectations will be high, but he is not worried saying by adding new facets to his game, “I’m going to surprise a lot of people. Be like, wow, Oscar is just a good basketball player.”

As the National Player of the Year, Tshiebwe will have a target on his back for opposing teams, but he embraces it and says, “I like when I am target”.

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Kentucky is not Losing to Saint Peter’s again

Upon his return, Tshiebwe said he told his teammates, “Let’s Go Beat Saint Peter’s, we cannot let Saint Peter’s beat us again.”

Even noting that the loss gave him some motivation for a return saying, “I said this was most disrespectful thing, I cannot end my college career losing to Saint Peter’s. So I say I gotta come back… we gotta run it back.”

Interestingly Tshiebwe talked about some of the players not being ready for the NCAA Tournament, “Some of my teammates were not ready, but I was ready” and with a 30-point and 16-rebound performance against Saint Peter’s that was very noticeable.

Tshiebwe ensures that will not be the case again, “I tell coach, ‘If I see somebody not ready, I’m gonna take your place. I’m just gonna sub him.’ I’ll be the coach for a minute’”.

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Do you feel confident that your NIL situation will get worked out?

Tshiebwe has never been shy about sharing his goal of using basketball to help provide for his family, with his student visa status causing limitations to his NIL earning potential, many thought that would push him to the NBA.

While nothing has been made official or been announced NIL wise, Tshiebwe did say he was confident, saying, “I feel confident. I’m a man of God, I trust what God is telling me. I know it is kind of tricky being an international student, but I believe it’s going to work out. God is going to open a way for me.”

When asked about the reported $2 million Tshiebwe said, “I don’t know about that, but that’s good money right there,” causing the whole room to laugh.

Tshiebwe talked about wanting to make an impact and help other international players be able to benefit from NIL, which is why he met with Kentucky senator, Mitch McConnell.

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On his decision to return

With his return, there is an assumption that the NIL situation has been worked out. However, Tshiebwe said that he didn’t make a decision based on NIL as it is a “distraction” but made his decision on what he heard from God.

On Friday, John Calipari said in a radio interview, “there were people in his [Tshiebwe] ear trying to get him to leave until the very end, up until he sat in that chair [on SportsCenter],” and even discussed that at one point, Tshiebwe recorded two videos for both a return and a departure to the NBA.

In this press conference, Thsiebwe echoed the same sentiment, saying, “there was like 50 and 50. People wanted me to leave. People wanted me to stay… ‘So who’s speaking the truth?’ I did not know. But I hear the voice of God and that was a true voice.

On his teammates testing the waters? (Keion Brooks Jr and Shaedon Sharpe)

Tshiebwe called Shaedon a “bucket” and said that he wants him back because it could be a “different level” of basketball.

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With that said, he understands that Brooks and Sharpe both have to receive the feedback and make the decisions themselves, but notes, “either way, we’re good.”

Tshiebwe has work to do off the court

On the court, Tshiebwe is one of the most dominant players in college basketball. Off the court, he is a tremendous ambassador for Jesus Christ. “Inspire people, bring people to Jesus, teach people about God”, Tshiebwe said of what God wants him to do.

Tshiebwe understands the impact he has on the community and wants to use that “not just for basketball but to go to places to teach people about God.”

Fan interaction while he was making his decision

Tshiebwe has gotten accustomed to the craziness of Kentucky fans within the state but was shocked as he traveled around the country to accept awards, and received a similar reaction.

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“I was in California, I thought like when I land in California I would be at peace, people don’t know me. As soon as I land in the airport everybody says ‘Oscar’ everywhere. I said wow’,” Tshiebwe said.

Tshiebwe has already become an all-time fan favorite in just one season, and with a second season, he could possibly cement his name in the Rupp Arena rafters.

“People are very excited and I am very excited to run it back this season.”

Tshiebwe repeated several times that next season is not about fun nor himself, “I win national Player of the Year, now it’s time to get the trophy [NCAA Championship] to put somewhere in the school”, even saying he is willing to travel with Calipari to help recruit.

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Watch the entirety of the interview here

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Men's Basketball

Kentucky vs. arkansas: TV/Streaming Info, Preview, and Betting Odds/PredictionsMen’s Basketball

Published

4 hours ago

on

January 31, 2025

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John Calipari returns to Rupp Arena as the Kentucky Wildcats take on the Arkansas Razorbacks in a highly anticipated matchup.
Chet White | UK Athletics

After a big win over the Tennessee Volunteers in Knoxville, the Kentucky Wildcats will turn their attention to one of the most anticipated college basketball games in recent memory. On Saturday. John Calipari will make his return to Rupp Arena for the first time as the head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks.

While there is currently a debate between booing and cheering, one thing is for sure: This will go down as one of the most emotional games in the history of Kentucky basketball.

If you are one to take into account the motivation factor, this game will arguably mean more to Calipari than anyone else on the court.

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While Kentucky has been enjoying success since the separation, the opposite is true for Calipari and Arkansas. The Razorbacks are 1-6 in SEC play and 2-8 in Quad I and II games. They’re currently projected to miss the NCAA Tournament, so they’ll have to win a game like this to get back in the hunt for a March Madness berth.

On top of that, they recently lost star freshman Boogie Fland for the season. The former Kentucky commit led the Hogs in scoring (15.1 points per game) and assists (5.7 per game).

Making matters worse is Johnell Davis, the former FAU guard who helped the Owls reach the Final Four in 2023, has been hobbled by injury this season and has struggled to find any rhythm in Fayetteville.

It’s worth pointing out that Arkansas did recently score their first SEC victory, a 68-65 home win over a Georgia Bulldogs team that took down Kentucky in Athens.

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This game has a different meaning for each team. For Kentucky, this is a moral win for the fanbase. For the Razorbacks, they’re fighting for a resume-building win to aid their NCAA Tournament chances.

Let’s dive into the matchup.

Let it Rain

Coming out Against Tennessee, a defense that allows a lot of three-point attempts, Kentucky made it their priority to shoot (and make) the three, and they did so successfully. From the tip, they shot four straight (making three) three-pointers and shot 14 of their first 20 shots from deep.

That game plan should carry over to Arkansas, which also leaves the three open. (i.e. Jack Gohlke)

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Kentucky has a strong three-player attack from deep tight now in Jaxson Robinson, Koby Brea, and Ansley Almonor. Those three made 11 of Kentucky’s 12 three-pointers against Tennessee on 57% shooting.

Attack the Glass and 50/50 Balls

Arkansas is not a strong rebounding team. Ranked 11 in the SEC of 16 teams, the Razorbacks have been outrebounded in five of their seven SEC games. That said, rebounding has been a struggle at times this season for Kentucky, especially so with Andrew Carr out.

Kentucky has to be the aggressor on the boards and limit the costly offensive rebounds they have given up of late.

It’s not just been the rebounding, though, as they have lost many 50/50 balls at critical points. While fatigue and lack of depth have certainly affected that, they have to want it more.

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Maintain Defensive Intensity

One of the most impressive parts of Kentucky’s win over Tennessee on Tuesday was their defensive intensity.

While they still didn’t force a lot of turnovers, they had great on-ball pressure, especially to start, and that set the tone from the start of the game. While the Volunteers had a couple of runs, they had to work hard for their shots and defaulted to shooting threes. I’m playing into Kentucky’s game plan.

The Wildcats need to come out with that same intensity against Arkansas, who is one of the worst three-point shooting teams in the SEC at just 32.5 percent. Take away driving lanes and encourage them to shoot threes.

Opposing Players to Watch

F Adou Thiero 6-8, 220 lbs

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  • 16.1 PPG (10th in SEC)
  • 6.2 RPG
  • 57.2% FG (2nd in SEC)

G DJ Wagner 6-4, 195 lbs

  • 10.2 PPG
  • 2.8 APG
  • 32.9% 3P

G Johnell Davis 6-4, 210 lbs

  • 8.9 PPG
  • 3.6 RPG
  • 37.9% FG

Kentucky Basketball vs. Arkansas Razorbacks

Time: 9:00 PM ET on February 1st, 2025
Location: Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center in Lexington, Kentucky
TV Channel: ESPN
Online Stream: ESPN+ and the ESPN app.
Radio: Tom Leach and Jack Givens will have the call on the UK Sports Radio Network.
Replay: WatchESPN and SEC Network (check local listings).
Rosters: UK | ARK
Stats to Know: UK | ARK
KenPom: UK | ARK
Team Sheet: UK | ARK

Odds: FanDuel Sportsbook has Kentucky favored by 11.5 points with an over/under of 158.5 points. That spread is a bit surprising with Kentucky potentially not having Lamont Butler and/or Andrew Carr, but the Hogs have struggled this season. EvanMiya gives Kentucky an 86.3% of winning, while ESPN is at 81.8%. BartTorvik and KenPom say 86% and 84%, respectively. However, these percentages are likely factoring in Lamont Butler and Andrew Carr, but there’s a real chance neither suits up on Saturday due to injury. In that case, the percentages would likely drop to somewhere in the 65-75% range.

Predictions: The analytics all expect Kentucky to win by double digits. EvanMiya (83-71) and BartTorvik (86-74) have the Cats winning by 12 points. KenPom has them winning by 11 points (84-73) and Haslametrics by 10 (84-74). Personally, I think Kentucky will be bothered some by Arkansas’ athleticism but they eventually pull away and win 83-74.

Send us your Kentucky vs. Arkansas score predictions in the comments section!

And Go CATS!

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Rick Pitino Asks Big Blue Nation to Show “Great Class”, Greet John Calipari With Standing Ovation

Published

1 day ago

on

January 30, 2025

By

Rick Pitino asks Kentucky fans to show "great class" and greet John Calipari with a standing ovation in his return to Rupp Arena.
Wendell Cruz-Imagn | Stephen Lew-Imagn

Better than anyone, Rick Pitino knows what it feels like to return to Rupp Arena as the opposing coach.

One of his fiercest coaching rivals will be doing the same thing this Saturday, John Calipari. Despite not being “best friends”, he respects Calipari and has posted a message for Big Blue Nation asking them to show “great class” in his return.

“The toughest day of my coaching career at Lousiville was when I had to walk into Rupp Arena,” Pitino said. “I tried not to show it, but when I went home, the reception tore me up apart because I love that place so much.”

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Pitino talked about a similar situation with fellow Big East coach Ed Cooley, who left Providence for Georgetown. Cooley opened up to him about nearly being brought to tears and the “bad feelings” he received upon his return to play at Providence.

Citing his experience and Cooley’s experience, he wants Big Blue Nation to greet John Calipari positively.

“I’m not best friends with John Calipari. I respect him certainly,” Pitino said. “It was a mutual thing. The fans wanted a change. John read the tea leaves, he needed a change. But what did he do for you?”

“He brought the best talent in the history of the game, of any university in America to Lexington. He also won a national championship. His style of play was extremely entertaining.”

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Pitino suggests that the packed arena give Calipari a much warmer reception than he received, with a standing ovation.

“He’s coming back on Saturday and I want all of you to show the great class that you have,” Pitino said. “23,000-plus people giving him a huge ovation. Show him what respect and admiration is all about.”

“I know you have the class and I have always believed in you. Do it once again.”

The full message is below.

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Men's Basketball

John Calipari Talks About Return to Kentucky, “I Can’t Say I’m Looking Forward to It”

Published

2 days ago

on

January 29, 2025

By

Nelson Chenault | Imagn

John Calipari’s return to Rupp Arena is arguably the biggest story in college basketball this weekend, but he’s not looking forward to it.

At a place where he hoisted a national championship trophy, delivered annual addresses to the Big Blue Nation, and won dozens of big-time games, the former Hall of Fame coach might be booed, something he assumes is going to happen.

“We’re going to have three players that played there. My guess is they’re going to get booed. My guess is I’m gonna get booed. But that’s all part of it. You get booed,” he said during his weekly coaches show.

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Being around Big Blue Nation for the past 15 seasons, he understands the fanbase he is walking into, and if he is booed, it doesn’t seem like something he is going to take personally.

“I’ve done this so long, I tell you, I got bazooka-holes in my body, so when you shoot arrows, it doesn’t even hit skin,” he said. “It just goes through one of those bazooka holes.”

While this isn’t the first time Calipari has left for another school, this is the first time he is returning to their home court and he isn’t sure how he is going to react.

“I can’t say I’m looking forward to it. I’m looking forward to coaching, but to walk in and the vibe — I don’t know how I’m going to take it, to be honest with you. That was a special time in my life and Ellen’s life. Fifteen years we gave, 15.”

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