EJ Montgomery’s decision to leave Kentucky after his sophomore season is a common one throughout the past decade of Kentucky basketball. Also common is Kentucky fans’ disagreement with players and when they should depart for the professional ranks.
Montgomery averaged just six points and five rebounds per game as a sophomore in 2020, but he made strides as a passer, shot-blocker and defender. His heightened tenacity on the floor and the Florida tip-in had the Bluegrass state buzzed for another star junior big man in 2021. Fans of Montgomery and the program were disappointed yet again by a player leaving before he had time to truly shine at Kentucky.