By LARRY VAUGHT

Arkansas coach John Pelphrey doesn’t mind talking about how good the Kentucky team this year is.

“One of the better defensive teams in our league, one of better rebounding teams in our league, the best 3-point shooting team in our league. Very well coached. Explosive talent,” Pelphrey said about Kentucky.  “They are outstanding. Their team is dynamic with the talent they have in terms of scoring in transition, at the rim, from the 3-point line. Just playing very well.”

The Arkansas coach says it’s not hard to see why Kentucky is giving up just 63.8 points per game. “Very hard playing bunch of guys. They play together. They obviously have size and length. Just an outstanding defensive team,” Pelphrey said.

He also thinks the freshman trio of Brandon Knight, Terrence Jones and Doron Lamb has been exceptional for UK this season. They are averaging a combined 49.1 points, 15.3 rebounds and 7.9 assists per game.

“They have been doing great. Obviously, any time a freshman comes into college basketball and has a chance to play and compete it is pretty special. Look at what they have done and not only have they competed in college basketball, but they have gone to Kentucky, a place that has won more games than anybody, and they have  been outstanding. They more than lived up to the billing,” Pelphrey said.