Kentucky freshman Aaron Bradshaw shines against Arkansas

The Kentucky Wildcats defeated the Arkansas Razorbacks 111-102 at Rupp Arena on Saturday, earning another hard-fought victory.

It required a team effort to prevail because the Hogs gave the Cats a fantastic game in both half. Aaron Bradshaw was one player who was very important and who brought the Razorbacks a lot of trouble throughout his time on the court.

In addition to finishing with 15 points on 4/4 shooting and 1/1 from beyond the arc, the rookie forward made eight free throws in just 12 minutes, setting a career high. He added an assist and five rebounds as well.

Bradshaw’s spectacular triple against Florida in Gainesville earlier in the season was actually his first since that one. His performance has drastically declined since then, with Zvonimir Ivisic and Ugonna Onyenso playing the majority of the time at the five position.

Nonetheless, the rookie center seized the chance against Arkansas.

“You will face hardship,” Bradshaw remarked following the match. “You will encounter hardship at some point in your life. Either way, you’re going to have to handle it. How are you going to handle it—well or poorly? I’m making an effort to handle it well. Entering the gym, exercising, and improving each

Bradshaw had only played in six double-digit games this season and just one in his prior twelve appearances. In fact, he made three more zero-point attempts during that time, so maybe this was the turning moment he needed to get back into the swing of things.

As the postseason approaches, John Calipari and his staff will have a plethora of options when it comes to rotations and players. However, this effort by Bradshaw should boost his confidence so we can watch the gifted big man make an impact in March.

Nothing could have happened to a greater player and child.