Collin Chandler was on fire against Georgia, but Kentucky just couldn't stop the Bulldogs enough to make it count.
In a showdown where the Wildcats' offense wasn't the main issue, Chandler put on a shooting clinic. He drained six of his first seven three-point attempts, matching his career-high with 18 points. Chandler is quickly becoming Kentucky’s go-to guy from beyond the arc, solidifying his reputation as a reliable shooter and finisher.
If you've been watching closely, Chandler has been in a groove since Kentucky's loss to Vanderbilt. He's hit 20 of his last 35 shots from three-point range and notched 18 points in three of the last four games.
Yet, despite Chandler’s heroics, it wasn't enough against the Bulldogs.
Kentucky shot an impressive 46 percent from the field and a solid 40 percent from deep on 30 attempts, a number Coach Pope likes to see. Chandler and Otega Oweh combined for 46 points, which should have been more than enough to secure a home victory.
The real issue lay elsewhere.
Georgia capitalized on Kentucky's mistakes, turning turnovers into 22 points. Against a team that thrives on tempo and defense, those empty possessions quickly turned into Georgia's gain. Perhaps Chandler should’ve had even more attempts.
Adding to Kentucky's woes, Georgia was scorching from downtown. Despite entering the game with a 31.7% three-point shooting average, the Bulldogs hit 14 of 41 (45.2%) in Rupp Arena. Kentucky struggled to defend both the perimeter and transition.
Chandler acknowledged Georgia's performance after the game, saying, “A lot of credit should go to Georgia. They came in and really imposed their will early, and they were very physical, which is something we face with every team.
We adjusted well after the first couple of possessions, but their physicality dictated our play a bit. Credit to them; they did a good job.”