The Kentucky Wildcats are off to a hot start, sitting at 10-2 on the young season with SEC play on the horizon.

With wins over Duke, Gonzaga, and Louisville, a key part of this team’s success has been the play of the big men. In particular has been the play of Drexel transfer Amari Williams.

Despite some hiccups at times, Williams is grading out as one of the best defensive players in the country, according to the analytics. He is also been a key part in the passing game for this UK offense. Yet he still leaves some to be desired every so often.

Mark Pope talked about the talented big man on his radio show on Monday night and pointed to the fact that both are still learning together as they attack this season.

“His defensive rebounding percentage is off the charts. He’s one of the best in the country,” Pope said. “His full rim protection numbers, when you evaluate all the things together, have been really good. And he still has so much more in the tank to offer.

“And we’re learning each other. We’re learning how we function together and learning each other. But certainly, he has a lot more in the tank.”

For Kentucky to have a successful season in conference play this year, Williams will have to be a huge key. It’s encouraging to hear he and Coach Pope have plenty left in the tank.

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