In the world of elite Basketball, great players always find ways to shine, even when their individual performance is not at its peak. Kentucky point guard Georgia Amoore demonstrated that once again in Sunday’s emphatic 96-78 Southeastern Conference win over Vanderbilt.
Amoore was instrumental in launching the Wildcats into a remarkable 31-point surge in the first quarter, showcasing her exceptional passing and ball-handling skills despite the Commodores’ aggressive defense, which aimed to disrupt her rhythm. Although she got off to a rough start, shooting 3-of-13 at one point, she bounced back brilliantly, hitting her final five shots to finish the game with an impressive 24 points, nine assists and two rebounds. in 39 minutes.
Coach Kenny Brooks expressed confidence in her performance, unfazed by her four turnovers due to her undeniable control of the game. Notably, she made back-to-back three-pointers in the fourth quarter, effectively sealing the victory for the Wildcats.
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Amoore’s remarkable streak continues with six straight games, scoring at least 20 points and dishing out nine or more assists.
“We had a fantastic start. It was a game that felt like a transition from basketball to football and back to basketball. The team showed great determination,” Brooks commented after the game. “It was extremely physical, maybe one of the toughest matches I’ve ever been a part of. They tried to trap her, but we have the best point guard in the country. It’s a challenge to contain her. Georgia really commanded the game, and those two three-pointers she made right in front of our bench were crucial.”
With the win, No. 16 Kentucky now stands at 13-1, maintaining a perfect 2-0 in the SEC, according to coach Brooks, who believes Amoore gives the Wildcats a significant advantage in each matchup. Amoore previously showcased her talents at Virginia Tech, where she was a two-time All-American honoree.
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“Having the best point guard in the country simplifies everyone’s role on the court,” Brooks said. “They tried to double team and trap her every time she came off a screen. Her elasticity puts opponents at a disadvantage. Her court vision and passing ability are simply extraordinary—I’m continually impressed with his passing skills.”
Brooks also recommended that she take notes from NBA legend Steve Nash, and he believes that she embodies aspects of Nash’s style in her game.
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“She started the season pretty sloppy with her shooting,” Brooks admitted. “She had to adjust to being the focal point of the opposing defense.”
Amoore had plenty of support from her teammates, especially Amelia Hassett, who made 6 of 10 three-pointers, contributing 21 points, nine rebounds and five assists in 31 minutes. Dazia Lawrence, after a remarkable performance with seven three-pointers against Mississippi State, added 17 points (3 of 5 from distance), while Clara Steak recorded impressive stats with 17 points, 15 rebounds, three assists and two blocks . Teonni Key also left her mark with 14 points, including two three-pointers, as well as seven rebounds.
Due to inclement weather conditions, the Wildcats have decided to extend their stay in Nashville, preparing for their next game against Florida this Thursday at 5:00 p.m. ET, broadcast on the SEC Network.
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