Collin Chandler had the best game of his young college career on Senior Night

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Kentucky Wildcats guard Collin Chandler (5) reacts after making a three-point basket during the first half against the LSU Tigers at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

Collin Chandler didn’t lack any confidence in Kentucky’s 95-64 blowout win Tuesday night over LSU.

It was a career night for the freshman guard, who finished with 11 points, four rebounds, and four assists in his 18 minutes of action. His points, assists, and minutes were all season-highs. Chandler connected on a trio of his six three-pointers — also his personal college best — as he took full advantage of the extended minutes sent his way due to the lopsided score.

“It was a special one, for sure.” Chandler said postgame. “With Senior Night, there was a lot of emotion going into the game. But I think the last week or two, I’ve been feeling good shooting the ball. I think that continued tonight, that confidence continued tonight. I think that led to a good shooting night.”

It certainly led to no hesitation with his jumper.

Let it fly, young fella.pic.twitter.com/tCf8IQqARW https://t.co/j13Fx7vuxs
— KSR (@KSRonX) March 5, 2025

Beating up on a bad LSU team undoubtedly helped Chandler find his footing, but his inspiring performance against the Tigers couldn’t have come at a better time. Kentucky will miss starting guard Jaxson Robinson for the remainder of the season because of his wrist injury. The likes of Otega Oweh and Koby Brea expect to fill that role moving forward (and they combined for 30 points against LSU), but any production Chandler can provide off the bench is an added bonus to the Wildcats’ depth.

It’s more than likely, at some point in the postseason, Kentucky head coach Mark Pope will call upon Chandler to make key plays in big moments. Playing his most confident basketball right before the regular season wraps up is a good sign. Chandler also scored seven points in 15 minutes against Vanderbilt on Feb. 19. After an uneven start to the season, he’s averaged 13.6 minutes per game over Kentucky’s last five.

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Something appears to be clicking for the skilled 6-foot-5 guard.

“As you’re rolling in and trying to find your game in college basketball, you just have to keep banging your head against the wall and being fresh and attacking and confident every day,” Pope said postgame. “(Chandler) certainly was that way this week. He’s been that all season long and then you create your own opportunities. It’s really awesome. He was really good tonight.”

Chandler’s defense is what has helped him earn playing time as of late, but being equally as impactful on offense is what could help Kentucky win a tournament game in the coming weeks.