Reed Sheppard discusses how he takes pride in his overall game

The Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team is having a solid showing at the GLOBL JAM showcase being held in Toronto, Canada. The Wildcats have gone 2-0 in their first two games, beating Team Germany and Team Canada. One of Kentucky’s big-time contributors so far has been freshman guard Reed Sheppard.

Following Kentucky’s dominant win over Canada, Sheppard discussed his style of play, taking pride in his ability to create both offensively and defensively on the court.

“Yeah, I mean, I think that’s how I play. Every time I go out on the court, I’m gonna do whatever it takes to win; I’m gonna play as hard as I can and try and create offense and defense for my team. And no matter what, just do whatever I can to win,” said Sheppard.

Against Canada, Sheppard got the starting nod and was all over the court for Kentucky. He finished the game playing 25 minutes with 14 points on 5-8 shooting from the field and 2-4 shooting from beyond the arc. Sheppard also tallied two rebounds, two blocks, four assists, and four steals, filling up his stat sheet in the contest.

Sheppard is a part of Kentucky’s star-studded 2023 recruiting class. He was the top-ranked player in the Wildcats’ home state and was ranked 38 nationally according to On3’s Industry Ranking. So far, at the GLOBL JAM showcase, Sheppard has done an excellent job showcasing to the world why he was a top recruit in the 2023 recruiting class. And if he continues this trend in the regular season for Kentucky, the Wildcats have a legitimate chance of finishing the year atop the college basketball world.

Jordan Burks sees himself as a sparkplug for Kentucky in 2023

Another incoming freshman forward, Jordan Burks, spoke following the win over Canada. Burks is working at carving out a role for the Kentucky Wildcats this season while they participate in GLOBL JAM. Kentucky has a ton of talent coming in with the 2023 recruiting class, along with the talent they previously had on the roster and one transfer portal acquisition, so playing time will be at a premium.

And although Burks is unlikely to earn a starting role this season, he is planning on contributing in any way possible coming off the bench.

Recently the Wildcats small forward from Decatur, Alabama, shared his thoughts on how he can contribute off the bench in his freshman season, likening himself to a spark plug for the team.

“Rebounding, blocking shots, getting steals; just being an energy guy, a spark plug, and coming in and doing whatever he needs me to do. That’s how I feel like I can help the team,” said Burks.

Burks logged some quality minutes against Canada on Thursday. The freshman had 19 minutes of action while shooting 75 percent from the field (3-4). Burks filled his stat sheet finishing the game with six points, four rebounds, two blocks, and a steal. Burks was able to give John Calipari and Kentucky fans a small sample of what he can bring to the table next season.