Lexington, Ky – November 25, 2023 – Michael Willis
It was the day after Thanksgiving, but the Kentucky fans were still thankful for another win when their Wildcats defeated the Thundering Herd of a Marshall 118 to 69. Kentucky started the game much better than in the past few games and gained an 8-point lead after a 10 to 0 run. However, back-to-back three-pointers got Marshall back into the game. After a 30 second timeout the Wildcats gathered themselves and controlled the game from then on.
The first half was the best of the season for the Cats who led at the half 69 to 41. The Wildcats set an all-time record for the most points scored in a half in Rupp Arena. Kentucky made 8 of the 11 three-point attempts and had 18 assists in the first 20 minutes. Three Wildcat players scored in double digits. Antonio Reeves led all scorers with 15. Rob Dillingham led in both rebounds with 5 and assists with 7.
The Cats didn’t let up in the second half and led by as much as 41 points. It was an impressive night from behind the arc for Kentucky. They made 16 of their 27 three-point attempts for 59.3%. Kentucky only committed nine turnovers while passing for 27 assists. This game was also the highest scoring game in John Calipari’s time as coach of Kentucky.
D.J. Wagner showed what he is capable of tonight while scoring 28 points. Most of Wagner’s points came on drives off the dribble, which is what had been missing from him so far this season. Justin Edwards had another good performance scoring all 10 of his points in the first half, making his first 3 three-point shots.
It was a special night for Reed Sheppard who received his Kentucky Mr. Basketball ring at halftime of the game. Sheppard scored 12 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and gained 6 assists in his 26 minutes.
Kentucky’s next opponent will be much more competitive when #10 Miami comes to Lexington. It will be a tough test for the Cats without a true center in the middle, however, with the way this team looks on offense they will make the game interesting. The game is set for Tuesday with a 7:30 tip time.
