‘I Could Write a Book About It’: UK Basketball Freshmen Reflect on First College Seasons
As the 2024 NCAA basketball season comes to a close, the Kentucky Wildcats’ freshmen class is reflecting on what has been a whirlwind debut in college basketball. For many of them, the transition from high school to the college level was a challenging but rewarding experience. Despite the highs and lows, they have learned invaluable lessons that they say will stay with them throughout their careers. And if they had to summarize it all, as one of them put it, “I could write a book about it.”
For the group of talented freshmen, the past few months have been filled with rigorous practices, tough losses, and unforgettable victories. However, the overall experience has been transformative, providing them with both challenges and moments of personal growth. Coach John Calipari, known for his ability to develop young talent, has pushed his newcomers to elevate their game, preparing them for what lies ahead both on and off the court.
One of the top freshmen, guard Isaiah Harris, admitted that the adjustment was tougher than he initially anticipated. “You can’t prepare for how fast everything moves here,” Harris shared. “In high school, you might be the best player on the floor, but in college, you’re playing against guys who have been doing this for years. The physicality, the speed, the mental side of the game—it’s all a big leap.”
For forward Marcus Brooks, the experience has been equally transformative. Brooks, known for his athleticism and versatility, explained that the level of competition was a wake-up call. “I thought I was ready, but there’s no way to fully understand what it’s like until you’re in the middle of it,” he said. “The intensity is just on another level. But I’ve learned so much from the older guys. They’ve really helped me see the game differently.”
While the adjustment has been challenging, it has also been rewarding. Brooks and Harris both spoke about the role of their veteran teammates in helping them navigate the ups and downs. Senior leaders like Antonio Davis and Jordan Keller have offered invaluable advice on everything from staying mentally tough during slumps to handling the pressure of playing for a historic program like Kentucky. “They’ve been through it all,” Harris noted. “Having guys like them around has made a huge difference. They remind us that every mistake is just part of the process.”
What stood out most in their reflections was not just the basketball aspect, but the personal growth they experienced. Freshman center Jared Owens described the mental adjustment as one of the most important lessons. “You’re no longer just a player; you’re a student, you’re living on your own, and you’re expected to perform at the highest level every day. It’s a lot to juggle, but it’s made me a better person,” Owens said.
Though their individual performances have varied throughout the season, the freshmen agree that their time at Kentucky has helped them develop both on and off the court. “I’ve grown so much since day one,” said Harris. “I could write a book about everything I’ve learned, the good and the bad.”
Looking ahead, the freshmen are excited for the future. With another year of experience under their belts, they are ready to build on what they’ve learned and make an even greater impact in the seasons to come. As for now, they’re proud of how far they’ve come and are determined to continue improving. For these young Wildcats, their first college basketball season has been a valuable chapter in their journey—and they’re just getting started.
