Dirty work is Liggins' business

Before Kentucky games, an assistant trainer offers well-intended words of encouragement to DeAndre Liggins.

"He always tells me to score 20 points," Liggins said on Sunday. "I tell him, it's not about that. If I score two points and we win, I'm happy because I know I did my job. He's, like, 'You're right, 'Dre.' "

Being a defensive stopper does not mean rose petals at your feet and the sound of hosannas in your ears. Such recognition is reserved for basketball's offensive stars.

"I'm not a big-time scorer," Liggins said. "I'm a defender. That's my role."

In post-game news conferences, UK Coach John Calipari does not wait for a question to prompt a mention of Liggins' value to the team. He volunteers words of praise.

Ana Beatriz Barros Maria Menounos Shakira Leslie Bibb Chelsea Handler