Is Kentucky's Justin Edwards somehow underrated?

Kentucky basketball has turned its roster around so quickly that some seem to be forgetting about pieces of the original 2023 recruiting class.

The Wildcats had a phenomenal class, pulling four five-stars en route to their No. 1 overall ranking. Since then, UK has added a pair of three stars, an experienced transfer in Tre Mitchell, and a unicorn of a big man in Zvonimir Ivisic.

A pair of injuries to centers Aaron Bradshaw and Ugonna Onyenso, and all of the focus has shifted to the new additions, the injuries, and the backcourt, which deservedly so has received praise for its play during the GLOBL JAM.

However, there's been one player that Wildcat fans have slowed down talking about this offseason that just so happens to be their best player from this elite 2023 class.

Justin Edwards needs more hype.

A 6-foot-7 small forward, Edwards has all of the tools to potentially become the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. The No. 3 overall prospect in the 2023 cycle had a couple of slow games during the GLOBL JAM, but once he picked things up on the offensive end of the floor, he looked borderline unstoppable.

Edwards finished tied for second on the team in scoring during the round-robin in Canada, averaging 14.5 points on 40% shooting. He also added 6.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.8 steals in 25 minutes of action per contest.

He showed the ability to score at all three levels while rebounding at a high rate. He took a while to get comfortable, but he showed off his smooth offensive game and mid-range dominance later on during the event.

While he may not end up being as efficient as other UK players this season, Edwards deserves more attention on a roster filled with superstars.

Keep in mind the Wildcats don't have a plethora of depth at small forward. Edwards is arguably the only true 3 that Kentucky has.

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