Let Nerlens be Nerlens

Last year Anthony Davis shattered the single season blocks record at Kentucky. This year it could already be broken. By the likes of one Nerlens Noel. Even as Davis put up huge numbers, analysts proclaimed Noel as an even better shot blocker. This couldn't be true could it? It looks as if it is. All reports coming from UK practice say that Noel is quicker off his feet, and has a shot blocking mindset that Davis lacked. However before we start comparing him to Davis, we need to let Nerlens be Nerlens.

Anthony Davis is a once in a decade talent in college basketball, he won just about every award imaginable. He set records and led his team to a national championship. To compare Noel to Davis is unfair, but it is the reality of Kentucky basketball. The highest of expectations are placed on players shoulders. We expect a championship every year. And while Noel has a chance to be every bit as good as Davis, let's not rush it.

While Noel may be an even better defensive player than Davis and can go up and get lobs just like him, the offensive game is where the comparison changes. Noel's shot is not nearly as polished as Davis's silky smooth jumper, and he also doesn't have the range of Davis, who can step back and occasionally throw up the three goggles. Noel isn't stagnant on offense, but he plays more a traditional big man offense compared to the all around style of Davis. I'm not saying Noel couldn't blossom into as big a star as Anthony Davis, but lets just wait and see. Let the big man carve his own path instead of fans forcing him to try and become Davis.

One thing they both have in common is a signature style of hair. Davis's unibrow caught on big time to the point that he even trademarked it. Nerlens rocks the flat top reminiscent of the Fresh Prince.

Can Nerlens bring home as much hardware as Davis? Can he hang a ninth banner in Rupp Arena? That remains to be seen. But if he does, he will do it his way. Not the way Anthony Davis or anyone else did.

We need to let Nerlens be Nerlens, and enjoy the ride.

Go Cats.