Tuesday Headlines: First Win and Importance of John Welch

The Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team tipped off its season on Monday night with an 86-46 blowout victory over New Mexico State University.

The Wildcats and Aggies had a rather close game in the first half, with Kentucky leading by just eight. But John Calipari’s team put on a clinic, out-scoring NMSU by 32 in the second half for their first win of the 2023-2024 season.

It had to be nice for Big Blue Nation to see Kentucky do what they were supposed to do — which was blow out a team that comes to Rupp Arena early in the year and isn’t expected to post much threat to pulling off an upset.

For example, Kentucky was favored by 15.5 points on Monday night, but they were able to win by 40 after pulling away in the second half.

Fans also had to be relieved to have John Welch on the bench for their Wildcats.

The story linked above by Kentucky Sports Radio’s Jack Pilgrim talks about Welch playing a key role in Kentucky’s player development, how he’s the ultimate gym rat, looks at the success he’s had with point guards, and how Kentucky is going to benefit from his presence.

It’s a fantastic piece and worth taking a deep dive to learn more about Welch and what he can bring to a Kentucky team that desperately needs a successful year from their Wildcats.

While early, it’s pretty clear that Welch is making a positive impact on the program, and boy was it needed.

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Headlines

No. 16 Kentucky Rolls Past New Mexico State in Season Opener – UK Athletics

Kentucky had five players in double figures, led by Dillingham, who had 17 points. The freshman added five rebounds, three assists and two steals.

Wildcats Begin 50th Season of Varsity Basketball, UK Plays Host to ETSU – UK Athletics

The Cats welcome East Tennessee State for the 2023-24 opener at 7 pm ET at Clive M. Beck Center on the campus of Transylvania University.

What Can UK Fans Realistically Expect From Big Z? - Vaught’s Views

Tempering expectations may be best.

Lakers’ Anthony Davis hampered by hip spasms in loss to Heat - ESPN

Tough break for The Brow.

Stoops, Cats Embracing Challenge of Facing Alabama – UK Athletics

“Alabama is a team that, you can see, is getting better and better,” Stoops said. “A typical Nick Saban team that is very big, very physical, very talented and extremely well coached.”

5-star ‘24 C Jayden Quaintance includes Kentucky in final four - KSR

Love to see it.

No. 1 LSU women’s hoops loses opener to No. 20 Colorado - ESPN

Wasn’t particularly close.

Emma Grome Wins SEC Player of the Week, SEC Setter of the Week – UK Athletics

Grome was named the SEC Setter of the Week for a fifth time this season and was also named the overall SEC Player of the Week for the third time this season.

Travis Perry down to 5 schools, commitment set for Sunday - KSR

Kentucky makes the list.

Chase Young speaks on different ‘vibe’ with 49ers - USA Today

This has to sting for Washington fans.

Watch The Highlights From Kentucky-New Mexico State - KSR

Everything you need to see from last night.

Cubs hire Craig Counsell as manager, fire David Ross - USA Today

This was rather surprising.