Coming Off the Bench? No Problem for Kentucky’s Sharpshooter Koby Brea
Koby Brea, one of college basketball’s premier three-point shooters, is proving that starting a game isn’t everything. After leading the NCAA in three-point accuracy last season at Dayton—knocking down 100 of 201 attempts for an impressive 49.8 percent—Brea has transitioned seamlessly to his new role at Kentucky. Now, as a Wildcat, he’s delivering even more remarkable performances, despite coming off the bench.
A Record-Breaking Sharpshooter
Brea’s prowess from beyond the arc isn’t a new revelation. At Dayton, he also boasted a 46 percent three-point shooting mark the year before his record-breaking season. This year at Kentucky, he’s off to an electrifying start, sinking 26 of his first 43 attempts, a jaw-dropping 60.5 percent success rate. Despite his scorching hand, Brea has yet to start a game for the Wildcats, a situation that might unsettle some players but not Brea.
“Over the years, I’ve just gotten used to it,” Brea explained. “I have a routine when I come into the game. Everyone talks about how coming off the bench isn’t ideal, but for me, it’s a blessing in disguise.”
Finding Strength in Observation
Brea emphasized that entering the game as a substitute allows him to observe and adapt before stepping onto the court. “I get to see how the other team is defending us, watch our guys—who’s hot, who’s not—and then come in ready to contribute,” he shared. “I view it as an opportunity to read the game and make an impact when I’m called upon.”
That approach has translated into a strong early season for Brea, who is averaging 12.8 points per game through Kentucky’s first eight matchups. His consistency, regardless of the opponent, stands out.
“I don’t see any game differently,” Brea said. “Whether we’re playing Duke or Jackson State, every possession matters. My focus is always on playing with my teammates, following the game plan, and doing what it takes to win.”
Defensive Growth in a New Team
While Brea’s offensive firepower often grabs headlines, he’s equally impressed by Kentucky’s defensive cohesion, particularly given the roster’s significant turnover this season.
“We’re already so connected defensively, and it’s only getting better with each game,” Brea noted. “On film, we see how many ‘kills’—three stops in a row—we’re getting, and that’s something we take pride in every game. Defense is what will carry us forward.”
From Rappers to Rupp Arena
Though new to Kentucky’s roster, Brea is no stranger to Rupp Arena. Before ever suiting up as a Wildcat, he visited the iconic venue for a Drake and J. Cole concert in March. The experience left a lasting impression.
Kentucky head coach Mark Pope recounted a humorous anecdote about Brea’s reaction to the event: “His girlfriend asked him if he was more excited about seeing Drake or being in Rupp. His response? ‘I’m more excited about Rupp.’”
Embracing the Challenge
Brea’s transition to Kentucky highlights his adaptability and unselfish mindset. Instead of demanding a starting role, he has embraced his current position, channeling his energy into team success. With his shooting precision, defensive commitment, and ability to assess the game before entering, Brea is not just thriving but becoming a critical piece of Kentucky’s game plan.
As Kentucky prepares for a high-stakes matchup against Gonzaga, fans can be certain of one thing: when Koby Brea steps onto the court, he’s ready to deliver.