The Kentucky Wildcats made easy work of the Jackson State Tigers in Lexington on Friday night by a score of 108-59.
It looked almost effortless as Kentucky crushed the Tigers in both halves despite too many sloppy turnovers and defensive breakdowns that led to wide-open scores for the 0-6 Tigers. Even so, this one was never in doubt, as Kentucky broke 100 points for the third time in five tires.
Despite an ugly opening, Kentucky led 54-30 at the half.
After the break, Kentucky extended its lead, but it wasn’t the Cats’ best game. They were playing arguably the worst team in Division I. Kentucky only won the rebounding battle by one and allowed 13 offensive boards while grabbing just four of their own.
Regardless, the Cats move to 5-0!
Next up, the Cats will take on the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers on Tuesday night in Lexington.
Here are three things to know from win No. 5!
Oweh is the Cats’ best player
Otega Oweh was a bit of an afterthought heading into this season. He was a third-year college player out of Oklahoma, but his stats didn’t jump off the page.
Fast-forward to now, and Oweh looks like Kentucky’s best player. He isn’t a prolific scorer, but he’s consistent, locks things down on the defensive end, and is simply reliable. He finished this one with 21 points (8/12 shooting), three steals, two assists, and one board.
Oweh isn’t spectacular, but he’s very good at a lot of things, which makes him the Cats’ best player.
Brea don’t miss
Koby Brea is quite possibly the best shooter in UK history. Every time the Dayton transfer shoots, you’re sure it’s going in…don’t kid yourself.
Brea led the country in 3-point shooting percentage last season at 49% (Reed Sheppard didn’t qualify), and he’s been even better this season. His shot is impossible to defend, and he’s got the prettiest stroke we’ve ever seen. He finished this one with 22 points on 8/11 shooting (5/8 from deep).
Brea is a stud.
Garrison is a spark plug
Brandon Garrison isn’t Kentucky’s best player, but he does a lot of things that don’t show up in the box score. He’s a hustler, he plays hard, and he’s a former McDonald’s All-American.
Garrison’s motor doesn’t stop. He’s always blocking shots and grabbing offensive boards while hitting the occasional long-range shot. The potential is clear, and while it isn’t always perfect, he doesn’t stop and is fun to watch.
Imagine what he could look like as a junior or even a senior in Mark Pope’s system.
Now, let’s celebrate the win!
Go Cats!!
