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Kentucky basketball is back, folks.
The Kentucky Wildcats began their inaugural SEC/ACC Challenge when they hosted a tournament Miami hurricanes In a battle between the top 15 teams tonight. In what was the start of a back-and-forth affair, the Cats ended up rolling over the Hurricanes, 95-73.
The first half was as exciting as anyone could have hoped. It featured some strong attacks along with some much improved defense from both sides. While the Cats and Hurricanes were exchanging blows, running back and forth, it was the play of Reed Sheppard and Justin Edwards that ultimately pushed Kentucky to a 42-37 lead heading into halftime.
In the second half, Kentucky flexed its muscles. With some crazy, consistent attacks combined with some much-improved defense, the Cats are unstoppable. Led by Sheppard and Antonio Reeves, John Calipari’s team built another 40-point lead to start the season.
If you didn’t believe it already, I hope you do now. This team is good. really good.
Now, Kentucky’s attention will turn to its matchup with UNC-Wilmington on Saturday night.
Let’s keep it rolling. Go cats!
The result is square
Highlights
Best player game
Tonight, that choice was very simple. Red Sheppard.
The rookie finished the night with 21 points on 8/13 shooting and 5/8 from three. He also added five rebounds, four assists, three steals and a block in 30 minutes of game time. Sheppard also had the highest plus-minus of anyone on the team at +35 on the evening.
It’s been trending in this direction for several weeks, but tonight may have put the icing on the cake. Shepard is legit. Along with Rob Dillingham on the second unit, this Kentucky backfield is deep and talented.
And once again, Sheppard is the star of the show.
Enjoy it while you can, BBN. He might be in the NBA next season.
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