Brandon Garrison, a sophomore center for the Kentucky Wildcats, has emerged as a pivotal player this season, showcasing significant offensive development under head coach Mark Pope’s guidance.
After transferring from Oklahoma State, where he started 29 games as a freshman, Garrison has adapted impressively to Kentucky’s fast-paced offensive strategy.
This season, Garrison has averaged 5.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 51.9%. Notably, he has expanded his offensive repertoire by incorporating three-point shooting into his game. After not attempting any three-pointers last season, Garrison has successfully made five this season, demonstrating his growing versatility.
Coach Pope has praised Garrison’s improved decision-making and patience in the post. He highlighted a particular instance where Garrison executed an exceptional backdoor pass to teammate Ansley Almonor, illustrating his enhanced playmaking abilities. Pope emphasized that Garrison is “becoming more and more patient in the post,” allowing offensive actions to develop and creating opportunities for his teammates.
Garrison’s performance against the Alabama Crimson Tide was a testament to his offensive growth. In just 19 minutes of play, he scored efficiently, grabbed six rebounds, and provided five assists without committing any turnovers. He also showcased his developing three-point shot by making one during the game.
Beyond scoring, Garrison’s role as a facilitator has been instrumental in Kentucky’s offense. His ability to distribute the ball effectively from the center position has added a new dimension to the team’s play. This season, he has recorded 42 assists, reflecting his growth as a playmaker.
Coach Pope envisions a bright future for Garrison, stating, “He is gonna grow into an extraordinary player.” He acknowledges that while Garrison is still learning, his progress in protecting the ball and his solid assist-to-turnover ratio are promising indicators of his development.
Garrison’s journey from a freshman at Oklahoma State to a key contributor at Kentucky underscores his dedication and adaptability. His expanding skill set and offensive versatility not only enhance his individual performance but also bolster the Wildcats’ overall offensive capabilities. As he continues to develop, Garrison is poised to play a crucial role in Kentucky’s pursuit of success this season and beyond.
