Nerlens Noel: Star Center Will Regret Going to Kentucky Wildcats

Nerlens Noel was hands down the best high school center in the country. He had his pick of schools to attend, and he decided that the reigning national champion Kentucky Wildcats were the best fit for his unique abilities. 

Be careful what you wish for, because all the pressure in the world now falls on Noel's shoulders. He has to prove that he can handle it, or else his run in Lexington will be considered a failure. 

First, let's start with the way Noel made the announcement. Known for his high-top fade haircut, Noel decided to have the Kentucky logo shaved into the back of his head. Fans in Lexington had to be ecstatic, but the first thought that should be going through Noel's mind is: I have to replace Anthony Davis. 

Therein lies the problem that Noel is going to be dealing with. It's not enough just to be the No. 1 center in the country; Noel has to deal with replacing the best and most dominant player in college basketball this past season. 

Davis was a freak of nature. He had the ability to change games like no one else in the country. He could go 0-for-7 from the field and still be the most important player on the court, because he was so good on defense and at blocking shots. 

Noel has great defensive capabilities, but his offense isn't nearly as advanced as Davis'. So unless Noel is going to be as good as Davis at the defensive and rebounding parts of the game, he is going to be a disappointment. 

Add to that the fact the Wildcats are coming off a national championship, and Noel has put himself in a no-win situation. 

Some players thrive in that kind of environment. Certainly, Noel's competitive spirit is as high as anyone's, but will that be enough to carry him through this year?

The weight of the world has fallen on Noel's shoulders simply because he has to take the place of Davis and made the announcement by shaving the Kentucky logo into the back of his head. He may think he knows what he is doing right now, but when the games get going he will be lost. 

Follow @adamwells1985