Justin Edwards made Calipari-Era history vs. Alabama
What a day for Justin Edwards. The freshman broke through in a big way, scoring a career-high 28 points to lead No. 17 Kentucky to the 117-95 win over No. 13 Alabama. He tied his previous career-high, 17, early in the second half, and was a perfect 10-10 from the floor. He also had 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals in 29 minutes.
Edwards’ 10 straight field goals without a miss are a new record in the John Calipari era at Kentucky. He is the fourth player in program history to attempt at least eight shots in a game without a miss, joining Rodney Dent (12 of 12 against Morehead State in 1993), Kenny Walker (11 of 11 against Western Kentucky in 1986), and Michael Bradley (8 of 8 against Pittsburgh in 1998).
After the game, Bill Raftery informed Edwards of that stat, to which the freshman pointed out he didn’t have a completely flawless game, going 4-5 from the free-throw line.
“I said the only thing I really missed was my one free throw.”
With Tre Mitchell out again due to a shoulder injury, Edwards played the four position and excelled, especially alongside Zvonimir Ivisic, who also played his best game of the season. The lineup of Rob Dillingham, Reed Sheppard, Antonio Reeves, Justin Edwards, and Ivisic scored 28 points in just six minutes. John Calipari said afterward that he liked that combination so much that he wanted to keep them in as long as possible, telling each guy to request a breather if needed.
We’ll have more on Edwards’ big performance as the night goes on. Until then, enjoy the Rupp Arena crowd giving him a standing ovation as he came out to speak to Goose Givens on radio.
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