The Kentucky Wildcats’ main narrative this offseason has been at the power forward spot. Kentucky has failed to acquire two power forward candidates, the most disappointing being when Donnie Freeman picked UConn above Kentucky. The Kentucky crew thought they were in a great position with Freeman, but he chose the Huskies over the Wildcats.
Kentucky initially returned to the drawing board by signing Ousmane N’Diaye, a 6’11 Senegalese power forward, but the Wildcats have now added another power forward to their roster. Justin McBride, a former JMU forward, has chosen the Wildcats.
Last season for the Dukes, McBride averaged 15. 3 points, 5. 6 rebounds, and 1. 5 assists while shooting 49. 4% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc. McBride was a highly effective shooter from three and the field, making him an excellent match for Coach Pope in Lexington.
Offensively, McBride has the potential to be a superstar in the SEC, but I have some concerns about how he would suit in as a defender. McBride stands 6’7″, making it difficult to perform the four at a high level in the SEC. McBride had a poor defensive rating in the Sun Belt, which is a worry for Kentucky, but his offensive ability is unquestionable.
McBride’s job with this squad is to serve as the reserve four. Hopefully, N’Diaye will start for Kentucky, with McBride coming off the bench. McBride may start again N’Diaye due to his background in collegiate basketball, but N’Diaye has much greater potential.
Kentucky has desperately needed some frontcourt help through the transfer portal, so it is wonderful news that McBride is now officially a Wildcat alongside N’Diaye. For the Pope system to perform effectively, Kentucky requires a four-shooter, which we now have since McBride has officially committed to the Wildcats.
Kentucky missed on Freeman, causing considerable worry, but the one-two punch of N’Diaye and McBride should be great for the Wildcats next season. Both of these guys are capable of sinking the three-ball, something that Kentucky’s power forward struggled with last season. The battle for the starting power forward position will be quite fascinating, and both players have compelling arguments. McBride was a terrific addition to Pope and the Wildcats.
