Oscar Tshiebwe reveals differences from last year, raves about Kentucky newcomers
Oscar Tshiebwe couldn’t sing the praises enough of Kentucky‘s newcomers as the Wildcats prepare for their revenge tour.
After being shockingly eliminated by No. 15 seed Saint Peter’s during the 2022 NCAA Tournament, Tshiebwe opted to return to Lexington with unfinished business.
Speaking with the media, Tshiebwe spoke about something he’s been very impressed with thus far in preparation for another season — the tenacity of the newcomers joining the Wildcats for the 2022-23 season.
“I’ll probably say that this year the freshman, the transfers are more ready this year,” started Tshiebwe. “They’re working. They’re giving everything in practice. They seem more ready to go than freshman last year.
“.. It’s true that we’re going at each other. They’re grown men out there. They’re attacking. They do most of the things. They know it’s not easy, but I love how Cason [Wallace] is doing. Chris [Livingston] — I thought he was good, he’s getting better. I love the competition. You play five on five, it’s not easy to go. Even for me, I can’t get no easy buckets. They just play physically, I love them.”
Continuing, Tshiebwe continued his impassioned remarks regarding his new teammates, elaborating on how much work the team has been putting in.
“I love all of them, the way they’re working right now,” added Tshiebwe. “Cason, Chris, Antonio [Reeves], the transfer kids. They’re working very hard. I love it.
“At practice, there’s competition. When we play five on five, we’re going at each other. They’re fresher than last year .. more physical.”
As you can see, Oscar Tshiebwe already sees changes in a supremely motivated Kentucky squad. Next season should be a fun one for John Calipari’s squad, as they’re on the hunt for respect after last season’s disappointment.
Oscar Tshiebwe talks about his growth as a leader, message to Kentucky teammates
Moreover, Tshiebwe has certainly become the face of Kentucky basketball program. Tshiebwe elected to return to Lexington for his senior season as the reigning Consensus National Player of the Year. While a lot of responsibilities will come on the floor, he’s also now responsible for taking on the role as one of the Wildcat’s leaders.
Continuing, Tshiebwe spoke to the media about his role in this upcoming season. He says he’s just trying to keep everyone explicitly on the same page yet comfortable enough to be curious.
“This year I just want everyone to do the right things. Making sure you be where you’re supposed to be, in the gym, and working,” said Tshiebwe. “I want them to understand that this game sometimes is confusing. Come ask something or ask the coaches. If you don’t ask the questions, you’re not going to know what to do. If I don’t know how to help, I might tell (them) to go see the coaches.”
Tshiebwe will be one of six seniors on Kentucky’s roster this season. He’s also one of the eight returning players from last season. Amongst the veteran group, though, Tshiebwe’s voice carries the most weight in the UK program. He believes it’s on him for keeping his teammates overall accountable and keeping their main objective in mind.
“Be responsible for everything you do. Make sure you do your school work. Make sure you stay on track,” Tshiebwe said. “They’re doing really good right now because we have no time to rest. This is the time where we’ve got to come together. We all (have) one goal.
“.. This year is not a year where we can joke around. It’s a year where everybody’s gotta do what they’re supposed to do and to stay focused. That’s what I’m doing now to help my teammates. We gotta be together. Together makes us one and it means we’re stronger.