LEXINGTON, KY - JANUARY 09: Former Kentucky Wildcat Jack 'Goose' Givens waves to the crowd against the Texas A&M Aggies at Rupp Arena on January 9, 2018 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) | Getty ImagesUK Sports Networks Michelle Knezovic was able to take some time and ask Jack Goose Givens for a couple of updates on what he has seen from the Kentucky Basketball team thus far. Some of his responses will certainly make Big Blue Nation excited about this upcoming season.The first question presented was an overview question just asking for his biggest takeaway after being at a couple practices so far this summer. Well, my biggest takeaway, and its noticeable because its kind of comparing to last year, this team seems to love practice, said Givens. There were times last year when I had to question whether or not they wanted to be here at practice, but it seems like, and were only in July, but it seems like these guys really want to work. They have enjoyed working. Theyve gotten better.That response is the dream answer for a lot of fans, just hearing that the guys truly want to give it their all and represent the program.Givens went on to share some thoughts on the backcourt.Whats really nice about Zoom is that he wants to be a leader. That is such a refreshing thing to hear, because last year that wasnt necessarily the case. Givens even said, Last year there seemed to be nobody who wanted that responsibility. He continued to praise Diallo and his leadership by saying he likes that we have a general on the floor, and a coach that the other guys gather around and want to be the leader.Givens thoughts on Alex Wilkins were covered with a blanket statement, stating that he has been really impressed and finds so many ways to score. Hes not necessarily the best shooter. He might not be the quickest guy, but hes crafty, he gets to his spots on the floor that he knows he can be effective, and already Im seeing him being a guy who can find many, many different ways to get buckets.When asked who he has been surprised by the most this summer, he named Justin McBride, who has been sidelined recently due to an illness but should be good to go now. Givens said that he wasnt sure what to expect with him, but hes quicker than he thought, a better jumper than he thought. He also said McBride shoots it lights out and that you cant leave him open.At the end of the interview, Knezovic noted that she loved that Givens had been smiling the whole interview, and he said, Im excited about this group of players, with a big smile on his face.Below, you can watch the interview with Givens.We caught up with @goosegivens to discuss what he's seen so far at @KentuckyMBB practice this summer. @UK_HealthCare Practice Report pic.twitter.com/WrSQ13l03w UK Sports Network (@UKSportsNetwork) July 22, 2026