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Friday Headlines: Scheduling Mystery Edition

Could Kentucky meet Gonzaga for the first time in two decades?

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NCAA Basketball: Kentucky at Arkansas Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Kentucky fans just may get the wish they’ve been asking for over the last several years. It’s been 12 seasons since Kentucky played in the Maui Classic and now over 20 since the Wildcats have had the opportunity to meet the Gonzaga Bulldogs in action. The last time the two played was November 27th, 2002 when Tubby Smith was in the midst of his Kentucky tenure. The Wildcats won, 80-72, and since haven’t been able to schedule a regular season game or met the Bulldogs in the NCAA Tournament.

However, a meeting may just be on the horizon following Kentucky head coach John Calipari’s tweet from Thursday evening. Calipari tweeted “Really interesting scheduling opportunity, if no roadblocks...” with signs pointing towards Gonzaga. While Calipari could very well be talking about another school, it just isn’t as fun to think of anyone but Gonzaga.

As of now there isn’t any indication on when or where the two teams (if Gonzaga is indeed the mystery team and the two programs can officially schedule a date) would meet. Each school doesn’t have very many incentives to travel to the other’s arena. However, it could be the start of a home-and-home like North Carolina is interested in establishing down the road. It could also be a one-time matchup for just this season. Only time will tell.

As of late June, the Bulldogs were ranked No. 2 in ESPN’s “Way Too Early” rankings with Kentucky coming in at No. 4. While both rosters are pretty much set, the Wildcats still have a chance to land reclassified big man Ugonna Kingsley with his decision set to come on Monday. His addition would likely be the final move for the upcoming season and certainly boost Kentucky’s roster as well as their ability to win a championship.

Tweet of the Day

Continued prayers for all of Eastern Kentucky.

Headlines

John Bol on Kentucky interest: “It’s a big school with a big name” - KSR

Well, he’s not wrong.

Alli Stumler ready to begin pro career in France - Vaught’s Views

Wishing her the best of luck.

Sheppard helping recruit “Dream Team” to Kentucky - KSR

This 2023 class has a chance to be an all-timer.

Barkley doesn’t receive offer from LIV Golf - USA Today

Looks like Chuck is staying at TNT.

Bio Blast: Deuce Hogan - KSR

Learn more about UK’s backup QB.

‘Independent study’ clause removed from Murray’s contract - ESPN

What are the Cardinals doing?

Sheppard on impressive ESPN debut: “I just proved that I belong” - KSR

Yes. Yes, he does.

Metcalf, Seahawks agree to three-year, $72 million extension - ESPN

Nice pay day.