Lexington, Ky – October 29, 2024 – Michael Willis
The last exhibition game is in the books after Kentucky defeated Minnesota State 98-67. Minnesota state won the Division 2 championship last year and was an experienced squad and are ranked #1 in Division 2 preseason polls. They would prove to be tough opponent for the Cats early in the first half, but the Wildcats rallied and defeated the Mavericks easily in the second.
The Wildcats struggled with the Mavericks at the beginning of the game turning the ball over three times in the first three minutes of the game. However, Minnesota State failed to score in the first three minutes which allowed the Cats to maintain the lead. The Mavericks weren’t ready to quit and after an 8 to 1 run pulled within one to the Cats, 18-19. Kentucky, thanks to better three-point shooting, went on a 21 to 3 run to end the half 43-23.
The Wildcats stretched their lead out in the second half leading by as many as 40 and dominated the second half. After making 6 turnovers in the first half, Kentucky only had 2 turnovers in the second half while forcing 17 Minnesota turnovers.
Jaxson Robinson was the player of the game, scoring all 24 of his points by making 8 three pointers. Otega Oweh continued to impress the Big Blue Nation and is perhaps the best player on the team at driving to the basket. Oweh finished the game with 15 points, 6 assists, and 0 turnovers.
Mark Pope was pleased with the way that his team performed stating, “There were some numbers in the game that we were really excited about. It was another chance to grow. So proud of our guys.” He later clarified that the numbers he was referring to was assists vs. turnovers. Specifically, Butler who had 5 assists and 1 turnover and Oweh who had 6 assists and 0 turnovers.
The talent gap between the two teams was noticeable, but the def eating the reining Division 2 champion by 31 is still a great night. Kentucky will face their first regular season opponent Monday, Nov.4 when Wright State comes to Rupp Are an in the 7:00 pm matchup.