Kentucky Wildcats: NCAA Tournament hopes hang in the balance
Wildcats hit skid, lose three of last four
The Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball team has hit a skid, losing three of its last four games, including a disappointing 71-68 loss to the South Carolina Gamecocks on Saturday.
The Wildcats are now 19-9 overall and 10-6 in the Southeastern Conference, which puts them in a tie for third place with the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Kentucky's NCAA Tournament hopes are now hanging in the balance. The Wildcats need to finish strong in the regular season and make a deep run in the SEC Tournament in order to secure a bid to the Big Dance.
What's gone wrong?
There are a number of factors that have contributed to Kentucky's recent struggles.
One is injuries. The Wildcats have been without starting point guard Sahvir Wheeler for the last three games, and his absence has been felt.
Another factor is poor shooting. Kentucky has shot just 41.7% from the field and 33.3% from three-point range in its last four games.
Finally, the Wildcats have struggled to defend the three-point line. Opponents have shot 39.1% from three-point range against Kentucky in the last four games.
What needs to change?
If the Wildcats want to turn things around, they need to find a way to get more consistent offensively.
They also need to improve their defense, especially on the three-point line.
Finally, the Wildcats need to find a way to win close games. They have lost four games by five points or less this season.
Can the Wildcats turn things around?
It's certainly possible for the Wildcats to turn things around. They have a talented roster and a lot of experience.
However, they need to start playing better soon. The SEC Tournament is just around the corner, and the Wildcats need to be playing their best basketball if they want to make a deep run.
Upcoming schedule
The Wildcats have four games remaining in the regular season.
They will host the Florida Gators on Tuesday, March 7th, before traveling to face the Arkansas Razorbacks on Saturday, March 11th.
Kentucky will then host the Tennessee Volunteers on Tuesday, March 14th, before closing out the regular season at the Georgia Bulldogs on Saturday, March 18th.
The SEC Tournament will be held from March 8th-12th in Nashville, Tennessee.
