Julius Mays is the newest Wildcat

In a welcome change of pace during a slow period for Kentucky basketball news, Julius Mays has heated things up. Reports indicate that the NC State-turned-Wright State transfer will be a Kentucky Wildcat in the 2012-2013 season. He will be filling a big hole in Kentucky’s shallow back-court, adding fifth-year senior experience and a deadly outside shot to Calipari’s arsenal.

Mays has been playing college basketball since 2008, the same year that Nerlens Noel started high school, meaning he adds much needed age and maturity to a Kentucky team with virtually none of its own. He’s experienced as both a role player in a major conference, and as a star among smaller fish, which should allow him to slot right into Kentucky’s lacking back-court with the perfect balance of confidence and humility.

His ESPN profile provides a deeper look into Mays’ past, including his impressive 14+ points per game and 40%+ shooting from behind the arc. Although it’s unlikely he turns in such big numbers at Kentucky, he will undoubtedly be a steadying influence and viable backup to both Ryan Harrow and Archie Goodwin.

Mays may not be the mind-numbingly strong recruit for which Kentucky fans are always looking, but he will be an important player regardless. The 2012-2013 Cats need mortar to hold the bricks together, and Julius Mays may be the senior mortar they need.