Brandon Garrison has had an up-and-down season, but when he performs well, Kentucky thrives. The Wildcats are 5-2 this season (including 3-0 in the last month) when Garrison scores at least 10 points. His impact was clear in Friday’s NCAA Tournament win over Troy, where he and freshman guard Collin Chandler sparked a crucial 15-0 second-half run. Garrison finished with 13 points, six rebounds, two assists, and two steals in just 15 minutes.
As Kentucky moves forward in the tournament, Garrison’s role could expand, especially with Amari Williams dealing with a minor back injury. Head coach Mark Pope is confident in Garrison, praising his aggressive and fearless mentality. “He’s sometimes wrong but never in doubt,” Pope said, emphasizing Garrison’s ability to make quick decisions and play with conviction. Pope also highlighted the sophomore’s improving offensive skills, including his floating shots and three-point shooting.
Garrison’s decision-making has been a double-edged sword. While he sometimes makes mistakes, his confidence allows him to be a versatile playmaker. He has shown growth in perimeter shooting, hitting five three-pointers in his last seven games, and boasts a 1.6 assist-to-turnover ratio—better than Williams’ 1.3. His ability to stretch the floor and contribute in multiple ways could be key for Kentucky’s success in the postseason.
Despite his inconsistencies, Garrison’s fearlessness makes him a valuable asset. Pope’s trust in him suggests that he could play an even bigger role as the Wildcats push for a deep tournament run.