Kerry Blackshear, Jr.

From: Virginia Tech To: Florida

Kerry Blackshear, Jr. was the top available grad transfer this offseason, and his decision to join the Gators elevates this season’s potential immensely. Blackshear appeared in over 100 games in three years for the Hokies, and was a key contributor last season, especially in the later stages. He experienced a natural progression into an increased role each year, and his statistics backed up the eye test. Blackshear increased his PPG from 12.5 to 14.9, and his usage rate grew from 23.2% to 26.6% last year. Another improvement in his game was an increase in assists each year. Blackshear’s APG increased 2x every season, from 0.6 in 2017 to 2.4 last year. While this is not a relatively high number nationally, it is positive for a 6’10” big man to draw attention, and find open teammates as his role develops. Last year, his role expanded quickly, due to Justin Robinson’s injury against Miami on 1/30. Up to that point, Blackshear was averaging 26.6 MPG, 12.7 PPG, and 6.5 RPG. Over 8 games in February, including contests vs. Duke and UVA, Blackshear averaged 35.6 MPG, 20.5 PPG, and 9.4 RPG. Also, his FTA per game almost doubled. He highlighted this stretch with a 29 & 9 outburst against Pitt in which he shot 8-of-9 from the field, and displayed his range, going 3/3 from beyond the arc. This season, Blackshear joins an impressive list of newcomers for Mike White’s squad. Florida brings in the #8 recruiting class in the nation, headlined by 5-star freshmen Scottie Lewis (#7 overall) and Tre Mann (#21 overall). Blackshear Jr. is expected to step into a starting role in the front-court, and provide leadership for this young, talented group. The Gators are a threat to challenge for an SEC title, as well as a deep run in March.