Kentucky head coach Kenny Brooks admits he and his staff chuckled when preseason awards watchlists emerged without Ajša Sivka’s name, knowing the 6-foot-5 forward’s true impact was yet to be seen. The 20-year-old from Slovenia made a bold choice to forgo immediate WNBA opportunities to join the Wildcats, a decision that has already begun to pay dividends as she establishes herself as one of the best players in the country. Her absence from the Wade Trophy and All-SEC preseason lists highlighted a significant gap in national perception, leaving many fans questioning what surrounded returning All-SEC center Clara Strack.
The Slovenian star silenced preseason skeptics with a 32-point explosion on national TV.
Sivka provided a definitive answer on Sunday, Nov. 8, during the fourth annual Ally Tip-Off at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte. Facing NC State in a nationally televised game on ESPN2, the versatile forward erupted for 32 points on efficient 11-of-17 shooting, including a blistering 8-of-12 from three-point range. She also contributed five rebounds and three assists, leading the Wildcats to a decisive 93-78 victory over Wes Moore’s Wolfpack. This performance not only showcased her scoring prowess but also her ability to stretch the floor and control the pace of the game against high-level competition.
The statistical dominance on a national stage has effectively erased the preseason doubts surrounding Kentucky’s roster depth. By delivering such a high-impact performance early in the season, Sivka has validated her decision to stay in college basketball, proving she is not just a supporting piece but a primary engine for the team. As the season progresses, her ability to perform under pressure on a big stage will likely elevate her status from a hidden gem to a household name in women’s college basketball, forcing the rest of the sport to re-evaluate their preseason assumptions.
Source: Yahoo Sports
