Brooks staying or going ?

[FitchandMurray29]

Yes. I mean, look at how much better he did at times this year than years past. ANd then look at the type of transformation Nick Richards had after a few seasons. I'm not saying it will happen.. but that's not really the point. Brooks finally flashed some real potential, and that will likely keep him here. If you're him, why leave now?

I totally get your point but here’s a couple reasons he might want to leave:
Many fans don’t like him, I won’t comment on if it’s justified or not. But I’m sure him and his family know this.
He’s played 23 and 24 MPG the last two seasons and essentially put up the same exact stats. For a professional future in basketball I think it would be better for him to go somewhere and play 32ish MPG and average 14-15 PPG than to run it back here. Especially if the other PFs on the roster with more potential eat into his time at all.

 

[track42]

Jacob Toppin should have started over him all season.

 

[Kybluedude]

As a Jr we should have seen a reliable player - a leader- that puts up 13 & 7 every night minimum with some better games. Getting 4&3 in games just doesn’t get it. No consistency or motor. Watching the 4 s on these tourney teams shows a difference.

Just not physical enough at 6 7 to play the 4. Doesn’t handle or shoot it well enough to be the 3. Tweeter.

 

[KentuckyStout]

It’s breaking news now because of the transfer portal and the tons of players transferring around the country. Not just at Kentucky, but if you don’t get many opportunities or PT it’s almost expected today to transfer.
5 years ago these decisions and announcements were ridiculous as we wondered about them leaving for the draft regardless of their draft status. Now until a player announces he’s coming back it’s almost easier to just assume he’s gone in some shape or fashion. Free agency is very real now in college sports.

Love the user name. Takes brass balls to have a user name like that.

 

[johnl1219_]

Also, it's pretty clear Cal is going to play him his minutes. It's other guys I'm worried about, like Hopkins or Collins (who is now back), as their roles are a bit more murky. But Brooks is basically looking at 25mpg or more. He'd have to be extraordinarily bad, AND have those guys make big strides, for him to lose that.

I actually think that a Senior Brooks is a lot better than a Sophomore Hopkins. Maybe Collins and Hopkins both make a big jump next season, but Brooks put up decent numbers. He scored over 10 PPG and shot 50% from the field...not terrible. But, I agree completely that he should never be taking the last shot of the game, especially from 3, where he was terrible. If it's me, I would rather have Brooks than Hopkins, ever it's an either or situation.

 

[St.PatterSoN-54-]

I think Alex Poythress could give him some pointers on ball control.

That being said, I hope he keeps working on his game and comes back.

 

[Seth_C]

Yes. I mean, look at how much better he did at times this year than years past. ANd then look at the type of transformation Nick Richards had after a few seasons. I'm not saying it will happen.. but that's not really the point. Brooks finally flashed some real potential, and that will likely keep him here. If you're him, why leave now?

The guy you are talking about had 2 and 4 points in our last two wins of the season. As a junior. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think he should leave because I don’t think anyone would take him so what’s the point? But I also think if we are depending on him next season then a repeat of this one is basically the ceiling. If Cal needs him to be a starter or insists on him being a starter then we aren’t a very good team.

 

[LineSkiCat14]

The guy you are talking about had 2 and 4 points in our last two wins of the season. As a junior. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think he should leave because I don’t think anyone would take him so what’s the point? But I also think if we are depending on him next season then a repeat of this one is basically the ceiling. If Cal needs him to be a starter or insists on him being a starter then we aren’t a very good team.

Yeah I don't really disagree. I think Brooks still has a lot more work to do. But my point is that I don't see him leaving, there aren't many realistic places to go.

Although, I do agree with a poster above, if he DID leave, we might wind up better off with some of the guys in waiting.

Still, we got Collins back, looks like Brooks isn't leaving.. that's likely 2 for 2. So I'm at least a little more happy to hear that players haven't bailed on the Cal.

 

[Yardeth]

I think he will transfer somewhere else and play. I could be wrong, but that is my guess.

Why transfer, he plays here on TV every game. He should have a ton of visitors tee shirts, why not get a few more.

 

[OmahaCats]

Wait, most of you want him back? 90% of all of you **** on him all year .

 

[Seth_C]

Yeah I don't really disagree. I think Brooks still has a lot more work to do. But my point is that I don't see him leaving, there aren't many realistic places to go.

Although, I do agree with a poster above, if he DID leave, we might wind up better off with some of the guys in waiting.

Still, we got Collins back, looks like Brooks isn't leaving.. that's likely 2 for 2. So I'm at least a little more happy to hear that players haven't bailed on the Cal.

But if Brooks comes back who cares if Collins does or not? That’s sort of the issue. Brooks isn’t a great player. He’s fine, and I’m happy to have him on the team, but if he comes back Cal will give him the majority of the minutes at the 4, try to run the offense through him, and let Collins languish on the bench. He just will. We all know that.

 

[track42]

Wait, most of you want him back? 90% of all of you **** on him all year .

He wasn't good most of the year.

 

[LowCountryCat]

Brooks' potential is his 27 point game against Kansas.

Unfortunately, it's hard to reach that level every game unless you're very mentally tough.

Brooks seems to lack that mental toughness necessary for him to become an elite player.

 

[LineSkiCat14]

But if Brooks comes back who cares if Collins does or not? That’s sort of the issue. Brooks isn’t a great player. He’s fine, and I’m happy to have him on the team, but if he comes back Cal will give him the majority of the minutes at the 4, try to run the offense through him, and let Collins languish on the bench. He just will. We all know that.

I think someone is going to have to transfer if we get Collins and Brooks back, as there is a bit of a log jam for our forwards. We aren't going to have those two, plus Hopkins, Ware and Toppin.. Someone is going to leave.

Collins really needs more development. Wouldn't be the worst thing to see if Brooks can put it together for his final year, while we still keep Collins for the following season. Although, who knows if he will stick around.

We do need to start cultivating a roster where some guys just need to wait their turn. I've seen so many rosters the last few days that literally have a working hierarchy it seems.

 

[Swaggy_G]

Tried to believe in Brooks this year and I'm out on him. If he transfers or leaves then I'm happy that frees up a roster spot.

 

[ManOfManyNames]

Only on here would people clamor for a double digit scorer to transfer only to then ***** about the roster turnover. You guys are a special kind of stupid.

KB averaged 11 pts and 4.5rbs in 24.5 minutes per game. He shot 49% from the floor and 78% from the line.

I agree he needs to work on consistency, ball handling, shooting 3's and playing through physicality, but if you are one of the people pushing for him to transfer, I would bet money it's more because of his statements about Rupp than his play. He is the exact type of player we should be hoping comes back every year.

 

[Kats23]

Despite being universally hated by the fan base, I can easily see this kid make an NBDL roster or playing in Europe. He’s the least of Kentucky’s concerns next year when it comes to the roster.

 

[Seth_C]

Only on here would people clamor for a double digit scorer to transfer only to then ***** about the roster turnover. You guys are a special kind of stupid.

KB averaged 11 pts and 4.5rbs in 24.5 minutes per game. He shot 49% from the floor and 78% from the line.

I agree he needs to work on consistency, ball handling, shooting 3's and playing through physicality, but if you are one of the people pushing for him to transfer, I would bet money it's more because of his statements about Rupp than his play. He is the exact type of player we should be hoping comes back every year.

I have no problem with Brooks and think he’s a fine, if unspectacular, player. I have a huge issue with Cal’s usage of Brooks and have absolutely zero faith in Cal to change anything. I think Brooks is a poor fit for what Cal wants him to be (not Brook’s fault) and I’m confident Cal will continue to try to force the square peg into the round hole, because that’s what Cal does.

 

[yabbadabbadoo_rivals213851]

Has a lot of holes in his game PERIOD

 

[dc513]

Maybe Brooks comes back to finish a degree. It seem e enjoys school . Ever consider That?

 

[RalphDaltonFan]

I like Keion as a bench player/role player. When he's elevated by seniority and not performance, that's the issue. Last year they tried to make him a leader. This year he was seen as something he's not. Not his fault and this has been one of the weaknesses Cal's had which comes from a good spot but isn't helpful to making anyone/team better. When you want something for someone but they aren't capable of it, it's counterproductive.

Keion is a good play finisher. He doesn't do anything else at a high level. That doesn't mean he can't help/play at Kentucky but it means you have to be honest with him and if he's not liking or accepting what you are sharing, then it's best to move on. If he is, and HC/Staff are forcing this, it's on them. Either way, you can't preach being "real" and trot out a team like this and talk like they are one of the elite UK teams or elite UK teams Cal's had. It's not and the reason is obvious to everyone. People have eyes/watch. Talent matters. This was a good team who had a chance to be playing this week but likely wasn't going to Final Four unless things went perfect. Cal forgot what gave him confidence and could back up his words and it's not the roster of the '22 team. Again, they are on right track after last year's cesspool, but this needs to improve an entirely different level and it takes better recruiting to do it.

 

[BlueWorldOrder74]

I don’t blame KB for being a good role player stuffed into the starting line up. Not his fault. He should be 6th man. Maybe 7th. Cals fault, again, for putting him into the “leader” position two years running with no real reason to do it. I heard before last season started - from a guy who has had good info in the past - that KB was transferring out. Last minute he did not, but not because he didn’t necessarily want to. I think a transfer out now isn’t out of the question. He doesn’t have it between the ears. No killer instinct, no awareness, no passion or desire to be better. He’s a coaster. Just my opinion.

 

[UK till Death]

Can't see him transferring now.. Brooks definitely was knocking on the door of "figuring it all out", which should keep him with starter minutes next season and an even bigger role. Plus, seems like one of Cal's guys who is going to get his minutes regardless.

As for the pros, it would have to be overseas.. I'm not sold yet on NIL being a factor for most guys, because I still think NBA money (and the NBA itself) is much better than some autograph deals... HOWEVER, if it's a player who doesn't have NBA ability at the moment, then NIL will be a huge factor in winning out over a few hundred grand, playing overseas.

Any business I see repped by Keion Brooks will result in me going immediately to their top competitor.

 

[UK till Death]

I like Keion as a bench player/role player. When he's elevated by seniority and not performance, that's the issue. Last year they tried to make him a leader. This year he was seen as something he's not. Not his fault and this has been one of the weaknesses Cal's had which comes from a good spot but isn't helpful to making anyone/team better. When you want something for someone but they aren't capable of it, it's counterproductive.

Keion is a good play finisher. He doesn't do anything else at a high level. That doesn't mean he can't help/play at Kentucky but it means you have to be honest with him and if he's not liking or accepting what you are sharing, then it's best to move on. If he is, and HC/Staff are forcing this, it's on them. Either way, you can't preach being "real" and trot out a team like this and talk like they are one of the elite UK teams or elite UK teams Cal's had. It's not and the reason is obvious to everyone. People have eyes/watch. Talent matters. This was a good team who had a chance to be playing this week but likely wasn't going to Final Four unless things went perfect. Cal forgot what gave him confidence and could back up his words and it's not the roster of the '22 team. Again, they are on right track after last year's cesspool, but this needs to improve an entirely different level and it takes better recruiting to do it.

He can't shoot for **** but he sure doesn't let that stop him from trying.

Sort of like how he didn't know **** about Rupp but still felt the need to spout off about our Legendary Coach.

Keion has little to zero court awareness and regularly makes the wrong play when he has the ball.

I hope he transfers because he will play huge minutes under Can't Coach Cal no matter what he does.

 

[KFuqua]

I'd be happy to see Brooks hit the road. He got way too much playing time this year and never should have been a starter at Kentucky. He's one of Cal's favorites, so if they're both back next year, Brooks will be at it again.

 

[DraftCat]

Not sure you can fix his low IQ... but if he figured out how to shoot the 3 ball I'd want him back.

 

[BBallin23]

I like Keion as a bench player/role player. When he's elevated by seniority and not performance, that's the issue. Last year they tried to make him a leader. This year he was seen as something he's not. Not his fault and this has been one of the weaknesses Cal's had which comes from a good spot but isn't helpful to making anyone/team better. When you want something for someone but they aren't capable of it, it's counterproductive.

Keion is a good play finisher. He doesn't do anything else at a high level. That doesn't mean he can't help/play at Kentucky but it means you have to be honest with him and if he's not liking or accepting what you are sharing, then it's best to move on. If he is, and HC/Staff are forcing this, it's on them. Either way, you can't preach being "real" and trot out a team like this and talk like they are one of the elite UK teams or elite UK teams Cal's had. It's not and the reason is obvious to everyone. People have eyes/watch. Talent matters. This was a good team who had a chance to be playing this week but likely wasn't going to Final Four unless things went perfect. Cal forgot what gave him confidence and could back up his words and it's not the roster of the '22 team. Again, they are on right track after last year's cesspool, but this needs to improve an entirely different level and it takes better recruiting to do it.

Who else the hell else were they going to play over him lol. He’s better than any other option by a mile.

 

[UKWildcats1987]

As a Jr we should have seen a reliable player - a leader- that puts up 13 & 7 every night minimum with some better games. Getting 4&3 in games just doesn’t get it. No consistency or motor. Watching the 4 s on these tourney teams shows a difference.

Just not physical enough at 6 7 to play the 4. Doesn’t handle or shoot it well enough to be the 3. Tweeter.

No one in the country was putting up 7 rebounds a night with Oscar playing next to them. I will excuse Brooks lower than accepted per game rebounding totals on that alone.

I am in the camp of if he goes, fine, if he stays, cool. I think he is an acceptable player if Cal would define his role better and put him in a position to succeed. Cal won't do that though so it is probably best for Keion that he plays his senior year elsewhere next year if he can do it without sitting out. That said, if he wants to just graduate with a good education and make the most NIL then UK is probably where he should stay. It is all about priorities.

 

[RalphDaltonFan]

Who else the hell else were they going to play over him lol. He’s better than any other option by a mile.

Jacob Toppin is a better player. He can do more things. He was playing better than Brooks in the loss too. At some point, you quit trying to milk something that isn't there. You also could go 4 guards around Oscar, but that's an entirely different subject matter that reflects on the program's approach to the sport.

 

[Monroe Claxton]

IUPUI-Fort Wayne with $1,000,000 NIL from Hank’s Tractor Supply

 

[tmuck]

His comments right after the game suggests he's probably gone.

I'll say he transfers to IU for his final year, or two, because he still

has the extra covid year. I'd like to have him back, but we'll get someone

just as good or better in the portal.

 

[FitchandMurray29]

Jacob Toppin is a better player. He can do more things. He was playing better than Brooks in the loss too. At some point, you quit trying to milk something that isn't there. You also could go 4 guards around Oscar, but that's an entirely different subject matter that reflects on the program's approach to the sport.

I really like Toppin in his current role. It’s the role Keion is also best suited for…so we need 1 of them and someone else better. One of my biggest problems with both players is that they are both PFs that don’t stretch the floor and aren’t power inside players. So what are they good for? Midrange jumpers and energy? Eye roll! Toppin has to stretch his(good form) shot out to the 3 point line. He’s made 8 3s in two seasons at UK combined. Brooks has made 18 total in 3 seasons with more than ample playing time. Cal needs to play a true PF or play a big wing that can shoot at the 4 spot imo

 

[westerncat]

Some of you who are expecting Collins to play the 4 i just don't see it happening. He will be playing at the 5 more than any other spot.