K-Stated

Jacob Pullen wears No. 0 in honor of Gilbert Arenas, who goes by the nickname “Agent Zero.”

In my estimation, the continued development of the freshman point guard from Chicago might be more vital to where the Wildcats hope to go as anything else that needs to be addressed this season. Speaking to the media for the first time this season, Pullen - who is the epitome of poise with a microphone or digital recorder in his face - discussed a variety of topics Sunday, all pertaining to basketball.

What’s up with the hair (see left)?
Kind of a business decision, but also just got tired of it. I had braids since I was a freshman. Everyone was getting used to it, so I just got rid of it. (Putting pressure on Blake Young?) Nah, Blake’s not going to cave. He’s going to keep his.

Looks like Frank Martin gives it to you pretty good at times, really yelling at you and yanking you on and off the court…
He’s doing it for the best of me. I never get mad at Coach because his decision is his decision. He always told me from Day 1 he’d be tough on point guards, tough on me, to be exact, and I thank him for that because it helps me out. He won’t let me come to practice and take a day off… Can’t do that.

Do you understand?
I’m young, so… I like a flashy play. If I feel if I can make a behind-the-back or between-the-legs pass, I’m going to do it, and I know if I mess up, I’m going to get subbed. But I also know he has faith in me that he’ll put me right back in because he knows I’m a good point guard.

How has the season gone so far?
I feel like we lost a few, but nothing that wasn’t supposed to happen. I feel like when we lost to George Mason, they just were more ready, older than us, had a feel for the game. That type of thing is going to happen, but I feel if we played them later in the season, we’d be ready. It’s still a learning experience for most of us, even the seniors like Blake. He’s only been here a year… (It’s been) a learning experience about us playing together.

Is it all coming together?
You can see the differences in our practices just by watching film. It’s certain plays we’re making now that, like, if I look at you, you know I’m looking at you for backdoor. It’s certain things… Our offense is moving now, just getting more comfortable.

What about the shooting?
Our shooting hasn’t been great. We’re getting in the gym. I can’t say anything bad about anybody. Everybody… We get shots up, and sooner than later, our shots are going to fall.