Good morning, BBN, and Merry Christmas Eve!Kentucky Basketball gave fans plenty to talk about just in time for the holidays, rolling past Bellarmine in a game that felt equal parts encouraging and concerning. The final score will say “win,” but anyone watching knows this one came with layers. Offensively, it was one of the Wildcats’ best performances of the season. Defensively, it raised some real questions as conference play looms.
And at the center of it all was one moment that could end up defining this stretch of the season.
This was the Kam Williams game.
Kam Williams unwraps a breakout performance
Before Tuesday night, Kam Williams was quietly struggling to find his rhythm from deep. Entering the game, he was shooting just 23.7% from three-point range (9-for-38), a number that felt shocking for a player with his shooting pedigree. Then, in a flash, everything changed.
Williams caught fire in historic fashion, drilling 8 of 10 shots from beyond the arc. Every release looked cleaner than the last, and every make seemed to energize Rupp Arena a little more. By the final buzzer, his season three-point percentage had jumped all the way to 35.4%, a massive swing that speaks to just how explosive his night was.
For a Kentucky team that has desperately needed consistent perimeter shooting, Williams’ performance felt like a Christmas gift wrapped in blue and white. If this outing proves to be more than a one-night eruption, it could fundamentally change how defenses guard the Wildcats moving forward.
Offensive growth shows real promise
Williams wasn’t the only bright spot. Offensively, Kentucky looked more fluid, more confident, and far more dangerous than it has in recent outings.
Jasper Johnson handled point guard duties and delivered one of his more complete performances of the season, finishing with 11 points and seven assists. His comfort running the offense allowed others to play freer, and it showed in the ball movement and spacing.
Otega Oweh quietly stuffed the stat sheet, recording 10 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds, falling just short of a triple-double. His ability to impact the game without dominating the ball continues to be one of the most underrated aspects of this roster.
Denzel Aberdeen also continued his encouraging trend, knocking down 4-of-7 shots from three on his way to 14 points. When Aberdeen is able to play off the ball rather than initiate every possession, his confidence and efficiency jump significantly.
As a team, Kentucky shot 16-of-30 from three, a number that looks far more like what fans expect from a Mark Pope-led offense. The challenge now is consistency—something that has eluded this group in bigger moments.
Defensive concerns can’t be ignored
As exciting as the offense was, the defensive end of the floor told a very different story.
Giving up 85 points to a 5–6 Bellarmine team is a glaring red flag. Kentucky struggled with rotations, allowed too many straight-line drives, and failed to consistently protect the paint. The energy and execution simply weren’t where they need to be, especially with SEC play right around the corner.
This defensive performance only amplifies the importance of having certain pieces healthy and available moving forward.
The Christmas wish list for Kentucky Basketball
With an 11-day break before conference play begins—starting with a massive matchup against No. 14 Alabama—Kentucky has time to reset. Here’s what should be at the top of the Christmas list.
More minutes for Jayden Quaintance
Yes, he’s on a minutes restriction, but Kentucky desperately needs his defensive presence. Quaintance changes shots, cleans the glass, and gives the Wildcats a level of interior toughness they simply don’t have without him. If he’s going to be a difference-maker in SEC play, he needs game reps now.
A healthy Jaland Lowe
Watching the St. John’s game made one thing painfully obvious: Kentucky misses Lowe. A true point guard who can control tempo, break down defenses, and keep everyone organized is exactly what this team needs. This break couldn’t come at a better time for his recovery.
Consistency from Denzel Aberdeen
Aberdeen has flashed real upside all season, and games like this show what he can be when he’s comfortable. With Lowe back, Aberdeen can thrive as a scorer rather than carrying the full burden of playmaking.
A surprise midseason point guard addition
Is it realistic? Probably not. But with Lowe’s injury history, the idea of a reliable PG2 is appealing. Depth at that position could save this team if injuries strike again.
Confidence for Collin Chandler
Chandler started the season fearless, shooting with swagger and trust in his game. As losses piled up, that confidence faded. Kentucky needs him to let it fly again—no hesitation, no second-guessing.
Sustained three-point shooting
Tuesday showed what this offense can look like when shots fall. Now the goal is making that the norm rather than the exception.
Final thoughts
This game will be remembered for Kam Williams’ explosion, and rightfully so. It felt like a turning point—one that could unlock Kentucky’s offense in ways we haven’t seen yet this season.
But as the holidays pass and SEC play begins, the Wildcats know the standard rises. If they can pair nights like this offensively with sharper, more disciplined defense, this team has the tools to make real noise.
For now, BBN can enjoy the gift.
And if Kam Williams just found his shot for good? That might be the best one yet. 🎄🏀
