@CoachRyanKY
(LEXINGTON) – Kentucky dominated Jackson State in every faucet of the game on Friday night inside of Rupp Arena, cruising to a 108-59 victory. The Wildcats dazzled with an array of highlights, a slew of three-pointers courtesy of Koby Brea, and even a flying shoe incident that added an unusual twist to an otherwise forgetful night.
Oweh led the way with 21 points on an efficient 8-of-12 shooting performance for Kentucky, continuing to surprise folks in Lexington that may have undersold his talent in the portal when he signed over the summer. The game really was never in doubt, something Kentucky is beginning to hang their hat on — dominating inferior competition. Wild thought, I know.
This dominant outing marked the fourth straight game in which the Wildcats sank double-digit three-pointers. Meanwhile, their defense overwhelmed Jackson State, forcing turnovers that fueled transition opportunities and made it impossible for Jackson State to settle into any offense. Don’t get me wrong this Kentucky team is good, maybe even great, but this Jackson State team might be the worst in the country. Still, a win is a win.
The night took a bizarre turn when Jackson State’s Dylan Canoville lost his shoe on offense. Instead of tying it or setting it aside, Canoville picked up the shoe and threw it at Brandon Garrison during a Kentucky fast break. Remarkably, the officials made no call on the play. Postgame, head coach Mark Pope joked, “We got to see shoes flying in the air. It was a magical evening.” However, those nearby knew he was less amused in real time. Perhaps he’ll consider adding a shoe toss drill to Kentucky’s defensive repertoire.
The Wildcat bench made its presence felt, with several players contributing to the team’s runaway win. Though Kerr Kriisa didn’t score, he orchestrated the offense with seven assists. Freshmen Travis Perry and Trent Noah made good of their minutes, each finding the net and drawing thunderous roars from the BBN. Both marking their first official points from beyond the arc in a Kentucky uniform, the first of what I am sure to be many.
Next up, Kentucky will face the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers on Tuesday from Rupp Arena at 6:30 pm, ET. This team is bursting with confidence, and the fan base is as well. Basketball in the bluegrass is officially fun again. Thanks to Mark Pope.
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