Big Blue Nation might have just discovered something special about Braydon Hawthorne, and Milan Momcilovic’s latest comments have made the young Kentucky wing even more intriguing.
Hawthorne had barely stepped onto the court in a Kentucky uniform before turning heads against Manhattan. But while his impressive debut already gave Wildcats fans plenty to talk about, what Momcilovic revealed after the game could send expectations surrounding the young talent through the roof.
The Kentucky newcomer finished with eight points, five rebounds, four assists, and two blocks in the victory over the Jaspers. His put-back dunk was one of the night’s biggest highlights, showcasing the incredible athleticism and length that make him such an exciting prospect.
Yet, the numbers weren’t what stood out most to Momcilovic.
The Kentucky star, who finished with a team-high 24 points, revealed that Hawthorne has already given him serious problems during practice. In fact, his incredible wingspan has forced one of college basketball’s dangerous shooters to find new ways to get his shots off.
Momcilovic explained that some of his first three-point attempts against Hawthorne during summer practices were actually tipped because of the young wing’s extraordinary reach.
He’s got a seven-five wingspan, so he honestly makes me a lot better in practice. Just because I got to find a way to get off quicker, get off around him because he’s so long.
Think about that for a moment. A player with Momcilovic’s shooting ability is already crediting Hawthorne’s defensive presence with making him better.
But then came the comment that could have Kentucky fans looking at Hawthorne in a completely different way.
When discussing the young wing’s playing style, Momcilovic brought up a name that carries enormous weight in basketball: Kevin Durant.
I mean, he just uses length very well. You know, tipped on his blocks. He had a couple nice mid posts, just, you know, kind of reminds me of Kevin Durant a little bit, so I mean, obviously he’s still working a lot, but he’s gonna be good for us.
Yes, Momcilovic actually sees some Kevin Durant-like qualities in Hawthorne’s game.
Of course, nobody is suggesting that Hawthorne is already playing at Durant’s level. The comparison is about the way he uses his length, operates around the mid-post, and affects opponents defensively.
Still, hearing that kind of praise from a teammate who faces him regularly in practice is certainly noteworthy.
Mark Pope could have a fascinating young weapon on his hands. Hawthorne has already shown flashes of his potential in his first appearance, and if he continues developing those skills, his role in Kentucky’s plans could become increasingly important.
The most intriguing part? Kentucky fans have only seen the beginning of what Braydon Hawthorne might become. And after Momcilovic’s Kevin Durant comparison, all eyes will be on what the young wing does next.
