Photo by Vicki Graff
The Kentucky Wildcats rolled out the expected this pre-season, sweeping their exhibition action in comfortable form. By simply looking at the final score, one would be oblivious to the inefficiencies displayed by the Wildcats against sub-par competition.
After dominating their games in the Bahamas back in August, Kentucky was mostly “off their game” against both the Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Transylvania.
Kentucky closed their exhibition season with an 86-64 win over IUP Friday at Rupp Arena. Four players scored in double-figures led by Reid Travis’ 22 points and 14 rebounds.
While growing pains are necessary with all newly-configured teams, one would think a team with talent of this caliber wouldn’t struggle like they did in their last two outings.
Kentucky’s carelessness with the basketball, inability to effectively move their feet on defense and streaky shooting were just a few miscues that need tweaking before Tuesday’s season-opener with the Duke Blue Devils.
With the quick turnaround, Calipari’s squad will need to better execute their game-plan as this particular matchup will be under the largest of microscopes. While the result will be far from impactful come the end of February, a win for Kentucky would provided significant assurance for Big Blue Nation.
Veterans such as Nick Richards, PJ Washington and Quade Green will look to lead a handful of talented freshman against the nation’s top-recruiting class that features the top-three overall recruits.
That goes without mentioning two of the best head coaches in college basketball going head-to-head on a national stage.
Kentucky’s mental toughness will be tested, though an insurance of veterans at Calipari’s disposal will make life a bit easier from the bench. Tip-off is set for 9:30 PM EDT on ESPN.
