Sahvir Wheeler jokes about 3-point shot, details what CJ Fredrick can bring

As the SEC’s assist leader last season, Kentucky point guard Sahvir Wheeler had plenty of options to dish to. With the Wildcat’s transition from last year’s team to the one heading into next season, one of the areas Kentucky lost production in was their three-point shooting. UK lost three of their top four shooters who shot better from 34% from distance, including Kellan Grady who led the Kentucky at 41.7%.

With that type of loss where Kentucky routinely struggles, it would typically be a cause for concern. That isn’t the case heading into next season, though, as reinforcements are on the way in the form of Iowa transfer C.J. Fredrick. After missing last season with a hamstring injury, Wheeler says Fredrick should slot right in as a piece the Wildcats desperately need.

“C.J. is an elite, elite, elite, elite shooter,” said Wheeler at one of Kentucky’s Pro Camps in Boyle County, Kentucky. “He has some experience playing with a really good Iowa team. He’s also watched (us) from afar so he knows what he needs to do and how he can help us. (He) is going to be a great piece.”

Through two seasons in Iowa City, Fredrick was one of the best shooters in the nation with a 46.6% clip from deep. He’ll slide right into Grady’s role as the experienced scorer from deep in the Kentucky offense. That will be the case if he can kick the injury bug that’s held back his college career. With his experience, Wheeler says the roster wants to see Fredrick out on the floor with them.

“He’s a guy that’s selfless,” he said. “He always want to make sure we’re good. That’s going to affect us on the court having someone like that. (We’re) hoping he stays healthy because we need him and really want him.”

Wheeler himself has struggled from deep as a career 27.5% shooter from three. With a focus on improving his shot this summer, he wants to take the title from Fredrick as Kentucky’s best shooter. When asked who’s better from long range, he said Fredrick still wears the crown…for now.

“Yeah, but not for much longer,” said Wheeler.

Kentucky will hopefully get their first look at Fredrick’s marksmanship (and apparently Wheeler’s) during their Bahamas Tour in August.