John Calipari explains the value of being able to find roles, lineups during Globl Jam

Kentucky is getting an early look at next season’s Wildcats with their stretch of games in this summer’s GLOBL Jam. While it’s a much-needed opportunity for the players on a new-look roster to get used to one another in live game-action, it’s also helpful to John Calipari as he mixes and matches lineups ahead of next season.

Calipari commented on UK’s rotations and how they’re coming together following their opening 81-73 victory over Germany in Toronto. First, he started by saying how glad his players are to be facing different competition. Then, from there, he highlighted how it’s a positive for him as well considering how he’s able to evaluate his roster and who deserves to play.

“The guys that are playing are happy as heck,” Calipari said. “You know, one guy’s misery is another kid’s opportunity. So they’re happy as heck that they’re having a chance to play.”

“And I’m going to be able to evaluate Adou (Thiero). If he rebounds the way he does? He’s got to be on the court. It’s just what it is,” said Calipari. “I told them we all know that he’s going to have to be on the court. Now, if someone else wants to play like that? Now, okay, maybe you’re on the court.”

After having next to no experience a month ago, veterans laid the foundation for Kentucky’s lineup in their opener in Canada. Antonio Reeves and Tre Mitchell led the way with a combined 44 points off of seven three-point makes. Then, beyond that pair, Thiero may have been the storyline of the game. He did it all with nine points, seven rebounds, three assists, two blocks, and a pair of steals.

After that, a few of Kentucky’s highly-touted freshman found some footing. DJ Wagner went for 16 points and six assists, Justin Edwards impacted the game without scoring a ton with a team-high nine rebounds and four assists, and both Reed Sheppard and Rob Dillingham made their presences felt in 16+ minute apiece off the bench.

Kentucky, as young as they may be, have several players that the staff can combine together. That’s especially so considering this trip isn’t including Aaron Bradshaw and may not include Ugonna Onyenso.

That’s why, as good as this is for the players, it’s just as good for Calipari, specifically from the standpoint of finding the right mixes and combinations for his roster early on.