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Posted by catmandoo (Member # 1284) on 06-04-2019, 10:24 AM:

The paradox of the one-and-done era in Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball has been the vital role experienced players have played on the most successful teams.

For all the attention on the one-year players that John Calipari has sent from Kentucky to the NBA, the best UK teams of the current era have had quality veterans.

When big men Nick Richards and EJ Montgomery announced their intentions last week to remove their names from 2019 NBA Draft consideration to remain at Kentucky, it assured that next season’s Cats will feature a significant veteran core.

A 6-foot-11 junior-to-be, Richards has made 40 career starts at UK. Graduate transfer Nate Sestina, a forward, made 32 starts at Bucknell.

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Posted by handycat (Member # 2323) on 06-04-2019, 10:51 AM:

Graduate transfer Nate Sestina, a forward, made 32 starts at Bucknell.

First, I know little to nothing about Sestina. But that stat makes me wonder if he will be any real help for UK, experience or not. 32 starts for Bucknell does not overly impress me.

[ 06-04-2019, 10:51 AM: Message edited by: handycat ]

Posted by catmandoo (Member # 1284) on 06-04-2019, 12:33 PM:

Nate's stats at Bucknell last season were 15.8 points, 8.5 boards, shooting 56.4% from the field and 80.8% from the line.

[ 06-05-2019, 09:24 PM: Message edited by: catmandoo ]

Posted by PaulCat (Member # 513) on 06-05-2019, 08:45 AM:

Let's hope he was a late bloomer! [Smile]

Posted by ukman (Member # 3032) on 06-05-2019, 11:58 AM:

If anything I think Sestina will at least provide some depth, and a different look for the defense. If he can step out and hit threes, that will be a big plus. He is also a very good free throw shooter.

Posted by handycat (Member # 2323) on 06-05-2019, 12:39 PM:

He has some nice stats. However he got them playing for Bucknell who is in the "Patriot League". My intent is not to bad mouth the player, the team or the league. His free throw stats might be the same if he played against top D1 competition but those other stats would be drastically changed. Hope he comes to UK and is a real beast but I remain skeptical.