(Jeff Houchin Photo)
Today will be the final game at Kentucky for seniors Reid Travis and Jonny David. However, it could also be the final Rupp Arena appearance for other players who may opt to leave UK early for the NBA.
Certainly sophomore PJ Washington, who almost left UK after his freshman year, has done everything to secure himself a spot in the first round of the NBA draft.
“PJ hasn’t made a decision yet, but if PJ decides this is it, reflect back on your career. Reflect back on the two years that you’ve had here. What did you learn? How did you learn it? What did you walk out of here with? Because whatever that is, it’s going to last you for the rest of your life,” Kentucky assistant coach Kenny Payne said Friday when asked what Washington should reflect on today if he does decided to leave.
Washington said Friday he had not “really thought about” Saturday being his final game at Rupp Arena.
“I’m just trying to go out with my teammates and have a special moment with Jonny and with Reid and just try go out there and get a W,” Washington said.
He says the season has flown by from the exhibition games in the Bahamas until now.
“I can remember having so much fun throughout the season and it’s just fun to look back and see how much we’ve grown so far,” Washington said. “I’ve done a lot here and I’ve grown a lot here. This place is really special to me and I don’t know how I’m going to feel (Saturday). I’m just going to go in with a happy heart and just try get a win.”
Washington said the team’s mindset changed several months ago and will carry over to postseason play starting next week.
“We’re just out to win every game and be focused in practice and walk throughs and stuff like that. Just to focus on every opponent and not take anybody lightly,” Washington said. “We’ve been doing that and we know everybody’s going to give us their best game of the season. We’ve just gotta come out and be the aggressor.”
