When you think about PJ Washington's impact on the basketball court during his college days, especially with the Kentucky Wildcats, a few things likely come to mind: his powerful inside game, his athleticism, and his knack for big moments. But what about his three-point shooting? It's a facet of his game that, while perhaps not his primary weapon, certainly played a role in his team's success.
Looking back at the 2019 NCAA tournament, a time when many college players truly shine on the biggest stage, it's interesting to consider how players like Washington contributed. The reference material highlights the dominant Duke squad of that year, featuring Zion Williamson, RJ Barrett, and Cam Reddish, all potential top-five picks. It also touches on Gonzaga's efficient offense led by Hachimura and Clarke, and North Carolina's blend of inside-out talent with players like Cameron Johnson, who was noted for his 47 percent success rate from beyond the arc. Virginia, too, was mentioned for its efficient offense and NBA prospects like Ty Jerome and De'Andre Hunter.
While the provided reference material doesn't offer specific box scores for PJ Washington's three-point attempts in a particular game, it paints a picture of the college basketball landscape he was a part of. Washington, playing for Kentucky, was a key player on a team that was always in contention. His ability to stretch the floor, even if it wasn't his main focus, would have been a valuable asset. Teams often rely on their forwards and big men to hit the occasional triple to keep defenses honest, and Washington certainly had the capability to do so.
It's easy to get caught up in the headline stats, but the subtle contributions often make a difference. A made three-pointer from a player like Washington could shift momentum, open up driving lanes for his teammates, or simply add another layer of unpredictability to Kentucky's offense. While specific game logs for his three-point shooting aren't detailed here, his presence on a highly competitive Kentucky team in an era of evolving basketball meant that developing a reliable outside shot was increasingly important for players at his position.