Shai Gilgeous-Alexander wasn’t supposed to be a one-and-done future MVP when he committed to Kentucky Basketball. But the two-time NBA MVP couldn’t be denied once he stepped on the court in Lexington. And Mark Pope sees similar traits in Furman transfer Alex Wilkins.
During a shot clock segment where he was asked to speak on each player with one or two words, Pope said, “SGA vibes,” when talking about Wilkins.
And it is easy to see why the comparison is being made.
SGA’s game is all about control and change of pace. He is not going to sprint past you or jump over you. He uses his frame well, and he changes speeds to get to where he wants to be.
When you turn on Alex Wilkins’ tape, similar things can be seen. Watch the first few plays in the highlight reel below:
He gets by his defender with a change of pace, uses his body, and finishes through contact. He has a nice jumper, and he looks in control of where he wants to go.
At this point in their careers, SGA is definitely more polished, as anyone should expect. Wilkins turns the ball over nearly 4 times a game, while SGA turned it over 2.7 times a night in college.
Still, both have smooth skills that make plays look effortless. That turnover bugaboo is something that definitely has to change, but the hype is real.
Another former Cat also comes to mind when watching Wilkins.
Alex Wilkins offers Otega Oweh-lite scoring punch
Otega Oweh averaged 18.6 a night last year, the second-highest output since 2017 (Antonio Reeves was just over 20 his senior year). That scoring was crucial for a Kentucky team that at times really struggled to put points on the board. Oweh shot 33% from deep and 46% from the floor. Wilkins 32% from deep and 46% from the floor, averaging 17 a night for Furman last year. One would hope those numbers improve as a sophomore.
Oweh rebounded a bit better (4 to 2) while Wilkins passed the rock better (4 to 2). Oweh is a little faster and stronger, but Wilkins has better vision and handles.
Now, will that translate to a similar impact? Man, it would be great if it does. But if he is putting out SGA vibes already, then maybe the answer is an emphatic yes.
For the full conversation, click below:
About the Author
