Monk puts on a clinic in one for the ages

Led by freshman guard Malik Monk, the Kentucky Wildcats outlasted North Carolina 103 - 100 in a classic thriller. Monk put forth 47 points on 18 of 28 shooting. He was most dominant from beyond the three-point line shooting 66%. Monk holds the Kentucky freshman scoring record, passing Terrance Jones and Jamal Murray who each scored 35 points respectively.

With a plethora of talent in one of if not the the most prized recruiting classes for head coach John Calipari, the Wildcats have been in search of their leader. Tonight Monk proved that although only a freshman, he is more than willing to embrace that role.

The freshman star was shining all game long but was brightest with 19 seconds left in regulation. Tied at 98 a piece, junior forward Justin Jackson came up big for the Tar Heels, drawing a foul on a hard-earned layup. Jackson would miss the free-throw that would make it a three point game, opening the door for Kentucky's sharpshooter. Wildcat teammate and fellow freshman guard De'Aaron Fox, who chimed in 24 points and 10 assists, dribbled the ball up the court finding Monk for the game-winning three. With ice in his veins, Monk hesitated when he caught the ball from Fox. That said, his infectious confidence and leadership showed in his shot driving the Wildcats to victory. Monk was asked about the final dagger postgame.

[Monk hits game-winner for Kentucky to down UNC - ESPN Video]

"When I hesitated I heard coach Cal say drive, but I was hot," said Monk. "I just shot my shot. I knew I was gonna make it."

Monk is a world class athlete whose game possesses an arsenal of weapons. As displayed tonight, Monk is lightning quick, can get to the basket with ease, and a sniper from distance. When watching him play, two NBA superstars come to mind. His athleticism is reminiscent of Russell Westbrook while his ability to catch and shoot from three raises the name of Klay Thompson. Monk is a rare talent with a sky high ceiling, making a name for himself game by game.

Not just Kentucky fans but college basketball fans were treated to something special tonight in the entertainment capitol of the world. Under the bright lights in Las Vegas, coach Cal and the cats have found their leader.

"They usually run a play for me the first play of the game," Monk said. "If I make it I'm usually gonna be on. They ran a play for me and I made it. I just knew I was gonna make the rest."