A Sea Of Blue - Kentucky vs. Duke: Everything to know for 2021 Champions ClassicOnline Home of the Big Blue Nation: Kentucky Wildcats Sports for the Discerning Fanhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/46621/aseaof-fav.png2021-11-11T06:00:00-05:00http://www.aseaofblue.com/rss/stream/225335742021-11-11T06:00:00-05:002021-11-11T06:00:00-05:00Grade Kentucky’s performance vs. Duke
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<p>How would you grade the Wildcats’ first performance of the 2021-22 college hoops season?</p> <p id="PXYtMa">The <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> fell short in their season opener against the <a href="https://www.dukebasketballreport.com">Duke Blue Devils</a> on Tuesday night in a 79-71 loss in the Champions Classic. </p>
<p id="EEhfp5">This was a back-and-forth game most of the night, but it was the Blue Devils that continued to hold the slight edge as they took a 39-35 lead into halftime. </p>
<p id="cvWu36">The Cats had an outstanding start to the second half as back-to-back layups by Oscar Tshiebwe followed by a big three from Keion Brooks gave Kentucky a 42-41 lead. </p>
<p id="wG0jhm">With Kentucky leading 46-45, a stretch of roughly eight minutes came that saw Duke go from down 1 to up 15 as they led it 69-54 with 9:22 left in the game. </p>
<p id="RqquGQ">However, this Kentucky team showed that they are never going to stop fighting as they began to claw their way back into the game and with six minutes remaining, they had made it a 69-65 ballgame. </p>
<p id="IkiV1l">Unfortunately, the Cats couldn’t bring it all the way back, as the Blue Devils made the necessary plays down the stretch to come away with the narrow victory. </p>
<p id="yB6N3d">Tshiebwe was without a doubt the MVP of the night for Kentucky, as he finished with 17 points, 19 rebounds, 2 blocks, a steal, and an assist. </p>
<p id="YzPOCj">It was also a good performance from Sahvir Wheeler, who finished with 16 points, 10 assists, and a steal. He did, however, turn the ball over seven times, but five of those came later in the second half. Coach Cal even took the blame for that, saying he shouldn’t have played Wheeler 38 minutes in the first game. </p>
<p id="Ft9UpQ">Overall, it was a rough shooting night for Kentucky, as they finished 29/77 (37.7%), but it was the close shots they seemed to have the most trouble with, as they shot an impressive 7/18 (38.9%) from three. </p>
<p id="PBV2I8">That eight-minute stretch in the second half proved to be the difference, but it was still a performance that should have the BBN excited about what we are going to see this season. </p>
<p id="6lIBpB">With that being said, how would you grade Kentucky’s performance against Duke? Let us know in the poll below and in the comments section!</p>
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https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/11/22775108/kentucky-basketball-grades-duke-blue-devilsAdam Haste2021-11-10T14:09:56-05:002021-11-10T14:09:56-05:00Who’s had the best Kentucky basketball performance of all Champions Classics?
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<p>Oscar Tshiebwe made his case in this year’s edition.</p> <p id="YUwXjk">While the <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> showed promise in their 2021-22 opener, they were still unable to take down the <a href="https://www.dukebasketballreport.com">Duke Blue Devils</a> in the Champions Classic. </p>
<p id="rlZ3D7">Yes, it stung, especially since it felt like a game Kentucky could have very well won if not for that second-half scoring drought. </p>
<p id="NAOiP8">Still, it was great seeing the Cats back in action and giving a top-10 Duke team everything they could handle.</p>
<p id="AGFWE8">If you’re looking for something else to help cheer you up, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLLtkBN_hYlCIUKJQd8ZcqA">our friend Daniel Hager has a new video on YouTube</a>, which highlights the best performances by various Wildcats in past Champions Classics. </p>
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<p id="ZK9ZtT">Personally, my favorite was Julius Randle vs. <a href="https://www.theonlycolors.com">Michigan State</a> in 2013 (27 points and 13 rebounds). The game ended in defeat for the Cats, but Randle’s performance gave us a taste of what was to come, as he would eventually help carry Kentucky to the national title game that season.</p>
<p id="EbAP3e">Oh, and of course, the 72-40 beatdown of Kansas in 2014 is always great viewing material.</p>
<p id="ivqhLx">It also got me thinking, who’s had the best individual performance in the Champions Classic?</p>
<p id="WwtrRm">Randle in 2013 is certainly up there. In fact, you could argue the best performances have come vs. Michigan State.</p>
<p id="7qdja9">In 2016, Malik Monk dropped 23 points while hitting 7/11 triples to go with six boards.</p>
<p id="aRMa3h">Then in 2018, Tyrese Maxey went for 26 points in his regular-season debut, including that dagger three-ball to ice the game in the final minute. </p>
<p id="lix4ZN">Alex Poythress going for 20 points and eight boards vs. Duke in 2012 has to be mentioned as well.</p>
<p id="fxgVSg">Don’t forget about Tyler Ulis racking up 18 points, four boards, two steals, a block, and six assists vs. no turnovers in 40(!) minutes in a double-digit win over Duke in 2015.</p>
<p id="PWOSAP">And of course, Oscar Tshiebwe had his monster game last night with 17 points, two blocks and 19 boards, 12 of which were on the offensive glass.</p>
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https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/10/22774807/kentucky-basketball-champions-classic-2021-oscar-tshiebweJason Marcum2021-11-10T08:00:00-05:002021-11-10T08:00:00-05:00John Calipari and Wildcats recap Duke
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<p>The Cats fought against Duke but came up short in the end.</p> <p id="KgaCL2">The <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> put up a fight but fell short against the <a href="https://www.dukebasketballreport.com">Duke Blue Devils</a> in the Champions Classic to start off the 2021-2022 season. </p>
<p id="REEUMl">Most of us really didn’t know what to expect going into the game, but Kentucky stayed competitive throughout. Ultimately, it was turnovers, missed shots, and defensive miscues that came back to bite the Cats. </p>
<p id="qw8sms">The Cats trailed by four at half and trailed by as many as 15 with about nine minutes remaining, but the Cats cut it to four with about six minutes left. However, they never could get any closer as Duke freshmen Trevor Keels (25 points) and Paolo Banchero (22 points) proved to be too much and nearly unstoppable going to the rim. </p>
<p id="oqSvLH">While a loss (especially to Duke) to start off the season is disappointing, there were multiple bright spots. </p>
<p id="ykA7CT">Oscar Tshiebwe put together a great performance with 17 points and 19 rebounds (including 12 offensive rebounds), along with two blocks. Going up against a good Duke frontcourt with Paolo Banchero, Mark Williams and Theo John, Oscar played extremely well. </p>
<p id="4rrmdx">Sahvir Wheeler also played well, finishing with 16 points and 10 assists. Turnovers were an issue for Wheeler, as he committed seven of them, but he made a lot of plays that kept Kentucky in the game. </p>
<p id="bAkDio">Kellan Grady only scored 9 points, but knocked down 3/7 three point attempts. Jacob Toppin and Davion Mintz provided good energy off the bench. </p>
<p id="D3TN5T">Issues with frontcourt depth behind Tshiebwe remain, and TyTy Washington struggled in his debut, but hopefully those things come along with time. </p>
<p id="vikkOr">Deep breath, BBN. Not all hope is lost. </p>
<p id="t4oa9R">Overall, not a great performance from Kentucky to start off the season, but nothing to drastically overreact to and there are some points of optimism going into the season. </p>
<p id="M95lCo">As John Calipari says often... I like my team. </p>
<p id="jGqTQJ">Now, here is a recap of what Calipari and select players had to say after the game.</p>
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<p id="N8Pded"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>Duke went on a 22-5 run and you guys came right back and countered it. What do you call to do that and what do you think that says about the team?</strong> </p>
<p id="ApsTpq">JACOB TOPPIN: I mean, it says a lot. We’re never going to back down from a fight. We’re always going to play to the end. When it says 0:00 on the clock, that’s when we’ll stop fighting. </p>
<p id="tY7Ani">So no matter if we’re down, if they go on a run — basketball is a game of runs, so everyone’s going to have their runs now. If they had their run now, we got to go for our run. So we’re never going to back down from a fight. We’re going to always fight because that’s who we are. That’s what we work on. We work on fight and if you’re not going to fight, you can’t play this game. So that’s what we preach on. </p>
<p id="G6Ilib"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>What do you think was the difference in this game, particularly in that big run Duke had in the second half?</strong> </p>
<p id="XAgCNm">JACOB TOPPIN: Defensively we got to be better, individually and as a team. That’s really pretty much it. </p>
<p id="vcXoNk">On the offensive end we got to execute better. We got to start making shots. Again, we shot 37 percent from the field goal for the game and that’s not good enough and we were still in the game, so that says a lot about this team. </p>
<p id="FpZSqb"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>Talk about the challenge of Banchero tonight.</strong> </p>
<p id="0YddrZ">JACOB TOPPIN: He’s a very skilled player. Like, let’s not hide the fact that’s a good player. He’s 6’-10”, 250 or whatever he is. It was a challenge, but I like challenges. I take pride in my defense. There was times where I stopped playing and he got easy buckets and that’s on me. </p>
<p id="Q0mWAx">But at the end of the day, we learned from it. We’re going to go back, watch film, and I’m going to watch film, and we’re going to see what we can do better as a team and as individuals and we’re just going to move on. </p>
<p id="x9dHMl"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>What was it like looking out and seeing your brother and the </strong><a href="https://www.postingandtoasting.com"><strong>Knicks</strong></a><strong> coach and Knicks players, former Kentucky guys supporting you guys?</strong> </p>
<p id="9Wq20u">JACOB TOPPIN: It was just a surreal moment. Being from New York it’s a dream come true. Playing MSG where my brother plays all the time, it’s a surreal moment. I don’t know how to describe it. </p>
<p id="JMNLS5"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>What can you and your teammates take from watching Oscar basically play himself to exhaustion trying to grab every rebound?</strong> </p>
<p id="tUWlY2">JACOB TOPPIN: I would say we’re used to it. We watch it every day in practice. He’s always fighting. He doesn’t take days off. He wants to better himself. And the way he plays in practice helps us as individuals and a team. </p>
<p id="9yvUSh">So he’s always been a fighter, he’s always been a hustle player, and he’s always been that type of dog to just go after rebounds, dive on the floor. He’s been that type of player. So it’s good for us and it’s good for the team. </p>
<p id="TBQ1xa"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>What did you make of what you saw tonight?</strong> </p>
<p id="kHIsUZ">JOHN CALIPARI: Well, we got it to four, and then we’ll watch the tape. Two shots blocked, and all I said all week, If you drive, just don’t get it blocked. Don’t even worry about making it because when that guy comes, the backboard’s free. We got two shots blocked. And part of this is, it was me, based on playing Sahvir too many minutes and I think he tired out a little bit. He had five turns in the second half. </p>
<p id="yQmvYG">But TyTy wasn’t playing well, and so I just stuck with who was playing well. So he got tired. TyTy played the way he did because we kind of wanted him to. Like, this kid is, we’re playing exhibition games, he’s shooting nine and ten shots. You’re supposed to be a guy that can go get baskets. </p>
<p id="B67q6S">So I will take responsibility for some of the plays that he made. And I just said to him, You know, kid, you don’t have to make every shot. You just can’t miss ‘em all. You got to make one or two. And he just was missing a bunch of shots, and if you watched him play, that’s not him. </p>
<p id="sBJtnQ">But this was a moment kind of game and for us to be in that game when our better players did not play well and their two really good players played really well and we had a chance to win. That’s crazy. So shooting 37 percent, we’re still working on post play for Oscar, but I’m telling you guys, he can really shoot the basketball. And so when he passed up those foul line shots, I’m like, he passed up three of them, like shoot it. </p>
<p id="0BIasB">I thought Kellan played well. I thought Davion played well. The game was a funky game for Daimion, but I think he’ll be fine. </p>
<p id="NLFV4C"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>I know that the turnovers were high in the second half. What was it like having somebody like Sahvir run your team —</strong> </p>
<p id="6DLkk1">JOHN CALIPARI: Oh, and he’s in huddles talking. I mean, he’s directing. He’s taking, he’s doing — look, when you have a downhill runner, he’s just got to get comfortable with our guys, and Oscar has never been, they have never thrown lobs to Oscar. Everything was a bounce and a mush, you know, and now all of a sudden, we’re trying to get him — you notice, he laid ‘em in versus dunking it. </p>
<p id="Frw3hk">So we got a lot of work to do. But you have to have a post presence if you’re going to win. That’s where you shoot a higher percentage. We missed a bunch of shots that I’m, like, wow. </p>
<p id="jp9f19">But give Duke credit. I mean, they kept us in pick and rolls, and again, I should have gone to forcing down the sideline earlier than I did. Not our kids’ fault. I told them after, that’s on me. But I loved our fight. I loved our competitive spirit. And that’s what our program is always been about. </p>
<p id="G03orf">Now, some guys got to step up. Like, when you talk about, I’ll just throw a few years ago, Tyler Herro, no one, he was a four star. He played in the McDonald’s game. Some of you, oh, we knew it. What are you talking about? </p>
<p id="unrWAB">Keldon Johnson. We knew this. But all of a sudden what did they do? Whoop. And then all of a sudden we get a chance to win a national title. They weren’t there early. This team has some guys, I don’t know which guys will do it, but they got to step up. I said, they got, their two top-five players played like top-five players. Now if you want to be them, then step your game up. I think we’ll be able to do some of that, but it all starts with fight. I’ve got to do a better job in scheming defensively and what we’re going to do, but I’m, like I said, I walk away, I wanted us to compete against ourselves and do stuff — we only had 13 turnovers. Like you think we had like 40 turnovers, we had 13. But we had 15 assists. And one kid had seven. Think about what that means. And he had a bunch of them late in the second half. </p>
<p id="PIKeQR"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>Keion played 16:40, that’s a lot of minutes fewer than any other starter, he didn’t have foul trouble —</strong> </p>
<p id="5lO8x2">JOHN CALIPARI: He was struggling to guard Paolo. </p>
<p id="hdAlcc"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>It was purely a matchup deal?</strong> </p>
<p id="F7sKic">JOHN CALIPARI: No, did you watch the game? </p>
<p id="9jeab9"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>I had to write on the first game in the first half.</strong> </p>
<p id="dm7nW2">JOHN CALIPARI: There you go. So tell him what happened. </p>
<p id="FxG9kQ"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>You coached a lot of really good freshmen, Paolo —</strong> </p>
<p id="qvYVdp">JOHN CALIPARI: Really good. Really good. He’s really good. Great kid, great family. Really good. You almost, you can’t — we had too much respect for him. We backed away and now he shoots. No. Make him make basketball plays. I kept saying it, but we’re afraid, so they kept backing up. Now Jacob seemed to go guard him and make him spin and do some stuff. But I even said prior to the game, they’re going to iso him. I thought they would short pick and a step-up screen and short roll him to the foul line and let him play there. Well they played him on an elbow and they played him in a short corner. It was the same idea. And then we were like, Okay, how are we going to do this. And it was a tough matchup. Keion didn’t play that bad it was a tough matchup. We wanted to try to win the game. </p>
<p id="DRKuNd"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>You recruited Trevor and Paolo pretty hard —</strong> </p>
<p id="WO7lXw">JOHN CALIPARI: Trevor not as hard, but. </p>
<p id="9aux7W"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>Was it hard —</strong> </p>
<p id="ZUl0lk">JOHN CALIPARI: Recruited Roach. Recruited Griffin. Probably recruited Williams. We got beat on all of them. </p>
<p id="mXdSto"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>But seeing those guys that you recruited so hard thriving.</strong> </p>
<p id="0eynXS">JOHN CALIPARI: Paolo’s the one that we recruited so hard. I’m fine with it. I don’t take this stuff personal. I hope he does well and I hope we play him again and he doesn’t play so well. But his dad is Italian and he’s an Italian citizen. So am I. I got a passport. And I still didn’t get him. I don’t know. So, but you know, I mean, he’s good. The thing that they have done right now is he’s in better shape. And they took him out for a long period of time, I don’t know why they had him out a stretch. </p>
<p id="zn2XTF"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>Cramps.</strong> </p>
<p id="MdW0py">JOHN CALIPARI: What was it? </p>
<p id="L641iz"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>Cramps.</strong> </p>
<p id="OmTXVC">JOHN CALIPARI: So he’s not in shape. </p>
<p id="ZTRTa8">(Smiling.) </p>
<p id="pqeQjO"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>With this potentially being your final year against Coach Krzyzewski —</strong> </p>
<p id="NAA4ww">JOHN CALIPARI: No, no, we’re hoping one more. But go ahead. </p>
<p id="KOWZAk"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>In that case what will you remember about your battles with him?</strong> </p>
<p id="762lwP">JOHN CALIPARI: Well, I remember one where we got beat so bad that I told the guys in the last five minutes, If anybody fouls or stops this clock, you’re finding your own way home, I want to be out of this building in seven minutes. </p>
<p id="nETyQJ">And then the other time Tyler Ulis just totally dominated the game and we beat them. We may have beat them a couple times, I don’t know, you would have to tell me. I know we beat them with Tyler Ulis. So may have beaten them another time too. </p>
<p id="g4FKR0">But you know that you’re going to have a well-coached team, his players are going to want to win the game, so are mine. That’s why you have this kind of game. He said to me after, This is like a post-season game. So but we, the coaches, I don’t know if they, if you — we got him a, we got — the three coaches together, because none of us are going to be able to do anything here, so we did a Zoom call. And Bill Self said, Cal, why don’t you get us a bottle of Pappy for him and we’ll all chip in, which they didn’t chip in, just so you know. So we got him a bottle of Pappy — you guys know what that Pappy Van Winkle? We got people that don’t know in this room. Well look it up. Okay. I sent, when we gave it to him it was, If you don’t drink bourbon — and I knew he didn’t — but if you don’t drink bourbon, you save this and when I retire you give it back to me. He came up to me prior to the game and said, My daughter saw this and said, You can’t get this. And I knew he didn’t know. He was like, Hey, nice bottle, pour it out, you know. And I would have done the same, but now I live in Kentucky, so I know what bourbon is. And I need some bourbon right now, to be honest with you. </p>
<p id="UFU9Th">But I think it was an enjoyable game that we learned, hopefully they learned. We got to have some guys step up. I got to — I can’t play Sahvir how many minutes did I play him? </p>
<p id="EnE9a6"><strong>Q.</strong> <strong>38.</strong> </p>
<p id="0zlVeN">JOHN CALIPARI: Can’t play a guy 38 this early in the season. So he should have played about 32 and he would have been fine, he wouldn’t have had those turnovers. Not his fault, that’s on me. </p>
<p id="2mTFRA">TyTy, he took more shots in this game than the two exhibition games. And part of that was me saying, Look, I want you to go at these dudes. So... </p>
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https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/10/22773748/john-calipari-uk-wildcats-recap-duke-college-basketball-newsZac Oakes2021-11-10T07:00:00-05:002021-11-10T07:00:00-05:00Risers and fallers from loss to Duke
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<p>Some huge positives to go alongside some fears that all fans had.</p> <p id="DM9z0Y">It was a wild one in Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night, but the <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> fell short to the <a href="https://www.dukebasketballreport.com">Duke Blue Devils</a>, 79-71.</p>
<p id="jXmxXD">In what was an up-and-down matchup between the blue-blood programs, the Cats showed a ton of promise on both ends of the floor, as they went punch for punch with the Blue Devils. </p>
<p id="pLEjqd">After a solid first half, Kentucky came out clicking on all cylinders to start the second half to take the lead. But then Duke’s talented freshman, Paolo Banchero and Trevor Keels, proved to be too much as UK took their foot off the gas, and the rest was history.</p>
<p id="NYHOnJ">Despite the loss, this Kentucky team is going to be quite alright. Now it's time to regroup and get back to Lexington and get back to our winning ways in Rupp Arena. </p>
<p id="8X4zBo">Here are some quick risers and fallers from Tuesday night’s game:</p>
<h2 id="swZiDe"><strong>Risers</strong></h2>
<p id="lwGfZq"><strong>Oscar Tshiebwe</strong></p>
<p id="zQZRcV">The ‘Cats finally have their bruiser in the paint. Oscar showed early on that what he might lack in height for the center spot, he makes up for with brute strength and a great IQ. </p>
<p id="7Vlw7R">He finished the game with 17 points on 8/14 shooting, and also added 19 rebounds. </p>
<p id="mTdZK6">As a transfer from West Virginia, and being coached by Bob Huggins, his teams are always one of the best rebounding teams in the country, especially on the offensive end. That coaching showed up early and often. John Calipari missed having that strong post present last season, and he has found it this season in Oscar. </p>
<p id="8zSmcc"><strong>Sahvir Wheeler </strong></p>
<p id="JiAFmn">Another piece that was missing from last season's team was a true point guard. Well, it's pretty clear they have found one, and he might end up being one of the best in the country. </p>
<p id="dQOEIc">He finished with 16 points and 10 assists, while also having 7 turnovers. </p>
<p id="qrqTzy">Wheeler showed why he led the league in assists last season as kept threading the needle with one primetime pass after the other. Now it’s pretty clear to see where his turnover issues come from as the pace he plays with is incredibly quick at all times, but without him on this team it could have gotten really ugly. </p>
<p id="pS7Cur"><strong>Pace & Shooting</strong></p>
<p id="8bDFIK">John Calipari made it known earlier this offseason he wanted this team to play with pace and wanted to shoot the ball from the outside. Well that showed out once again against a solid opponent. </p>
<p id="t9o30D">Today’s basketball is all about pace-and-space. Run the floor, shoot the open three or slam it down in transition. This team has adopted this mentality. </p>
<p id="zITpLw">After every miss they are pushing in transition, and passing ahead to stay out in front of the defense. Once the chemistry continues to grow, and shooters start to feel comfortable floating to their spot, this team should continue to become even more dangerous in the open floor. </p>
<h2 id="OwlGBT"><strong>Fallers</strong></h2>
<p id="PBqcwO"><strong>Size </strong></p>
<p id="f07zYc">It is no secret that this Kentucky team is lacking in size, in particular height. It came into play some as they went against Mark Williams and Theo John. </p>
<p id="NUWQJU">As the season continues this is going to be a storyline to follow, especially as the season heats up during conference play and in March. When the ‘Cats play against teams with a taller front-court they will need to rely on the pace of the bigs to out-run their man instead of trying to score over them in the post. </p>
<p id="uUz6yK"><strong>Freshmen</strong></p>
<p id="EBzOEF">Let me start with this; Collins will end up being one of the key rotation guys come the end of this season, but this was just a little bit much for him to handle physically. </p>
<p id="Sb3axz">Williams and John are seasoned, strong, gritty post players, while Collins relies on the pace and his athleticism to win out over his opponents. This just wasn't the matchup for him to shine, but it is obvious that his strength could come into play in numerous situations this season, just from his brief period in this game. </p>
<p id="WHjK0v">TyTy Washington shined in the two exhibition games, but struggled mightily as he tried to force a rhythm, when one just wasn't coming to him. </p>
<p id="QEIpf1">Washington could very well end up being the best player on this roster come March, but the Big Blue Nation came back down to Earth this time with the expectations for him early in the season. </p>
<p id="yDeLsX"><strong>Scoring Droughts </strong></p>
<p id="PZqzYn">They happened seemingly every game for UK last season, and this one came at the most inopportune time in the second half when the Cats went cold. That ended up being what ultimately cost them the game.</p>
<p id="CQH6G2">What made it more painful was a lot of it came with Paolo Banchero out of the game with an injury, though he eventually returned to help Duke finish it off.</p>
<p id="TA2fs9">Who was your biggest riser/faller? Let us know in the comments section!</p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/10/22773483/kentucky-wildcats-basketball-risers-fallers-dukeEthan DeWitt2021-11-09T23:59:14-05:002021-11-09T23:59:14-05:00Highlights, box score and MVP from Kentucky falling to Duke
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/A3_xudk0YxeRdF3cAHLTHDFb4lE=/0x1:2048x1366/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70120419/oscar_Tshiebwe_3.5.jpg" />
<figcaption>Drew Brown - Sea of Blue</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The outcome wasn't what we all hoped for, but there are still some positives to take from this one, including our MVP.</p> <p id="B5mJSY">The <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> fell to the <a href="https://www.dukebasketballreport.com">Duke Blue Devils</a> on Tuesday night in the season opener by a score of 79-71.</p>
<p id="FG9VQ1">Both teams got off to slow starts in what was a high-intensity battle all throughout. Kentucky struggled to score in the first half, but they were able to keep the score close as they went into the break down 39-35.</p>
<p id="wwikor">In the second half, the lack of scoring came back to bite the Cats as TyTy Washington forced bad shot after bad shot in a very poor debut. Sahvir Wheeler gave the team a chance with his excellent play, especially in the first half, on his way to a double-double with 10 assists. Kellan Grady looked awesome in the first half but was only played sparingly at the start of the second half and couldn’t get back into a rhythm.</p>
<p id="yErIdE">Kentucky fought, but it just wasn't enough in the end as the Duke freshmen dominated under the bright lights. On to the next one.</p>
<p id="hKtYIy">Next up, the Cats will return to Lexington to take on the Robert Morris Colonials on Friday night.</p>
<h3 id="ccgf12"><strong>Box Score</strong></h3>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wDFadpTq-QcWv0aeu4krtg_dB9c=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/23001616/bss.jpg">
</figure>
<h3 id="ltJ2Na"><strong>Game MVP</strong></h3>
<p id="ThIvs2">Oscar Tshiebwe was an absolute man in this game. Big O was a force on the glass and his motor never stops, despite foul trouble limiting him for a large portion of the game.</p>
<p id="36lpSS">Tshiebwe doesn't take no for an answer when he’s down low trying to grab a rebound, especially on the offensive glass where he corralled 12 offensive boards. He isn't the tallest center in the game, but he has to be one of the toughest.</p>
<p id="2UfFjD">Big O finished with 17 points and 19 rebounds, while shooting 8-14 from the field. He made his only attempt from the line (yes, I know it’s incredible that someone as physical as he is in the paint only attempted one free throw). Oscar also added two blocks to the stat sheet.</p>
<p id="HplOa0">All in all, it was an amazing performance by Big O. The team fought and while they didn't win, this isn't last year’s squad. There's a lot of good to take from this game, and I’m looking forward to watching another high-caliber Kentucky team.</p>
<h3 id="4TTosK">Highlights</h3>
<div id="9HRAkG"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FTdwHsvbaWQ?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture;"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="pyxzYy"><em>Sea of Blue is loaded with Kentucky Wildcats articles, so be sure to</em><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/GoASoB/posts/"><em> go ‘like’ our Facebook page</em></a><em> and</em><a href="https://twitter.com/aseaofblue"><em> follow us on Twitter</em></a><em>. Go Cats!</em></p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/9/22773520/kentucky-wildcats-highlights-box-score-mvp-duke-basketballNick Wheatley2021-11-09T23:50:23-05:002021-11-09T23:50:23-05:00Kentucky loses the season opener to Duke: 4 things to know and postgame processing
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: Kentucky at Duke" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Ksimoa2D7vp46C_73lW3miPt13M=/0x0:4344x2896/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70120405/usa_today_17127960.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Kentucky fought to the bitter end.</p> <p id="CP96ar">The <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> dropped their regular season opener to the <a href="https://www.dukebasketballreport.com">Duke Blue Devils</a> on Tuesday with a score of 79-71. It was not quite the massacre that we saw in the 2018 Champion’s Classic, but the message remains that the Wildcats have some work to do.</p>
<p id="7Pw7dx">Kentucky was led in points and rebounds by Oscar Tshiebwe with 17 points and 19 rebounds in an outstanding performance. However, the Wildcats did not shoot or defend well enough to keep up with Duke’s potent offense.</p>
<p id="PRmB6i">Here is what you need to know from Kentucky’s opening night of the 2021-2022 season.</p>
<p id="GMNhpl"><strong>Shooters Shoot</strong></p>
<p id="ftjRJH">While it felt like Kentucky missed a ton of open looks, the perimeter shooting was pretty solid on Tuesday. In fact, the Wildcats shot MUCH better from the three-point line than they did otherwise. </p>
<p id="koPkqm">While I do not expect that to be the case moving forward, being able to shoot over 38% from deep as a team in back-to-back games has to be a good sign for things to come. Once the nerves subside and the chemistry builds, the interior and mid-range game will come around and create a dangerous offensive attack.</p>
<p id="gAnHN2"><strong>Oscar is a Stud</strong></p>
<p id="dtw4yJ">We throw the term “grown man” out a lot when talking about athletes. That is not an exaggeration when talking about Oscar Tshiebwe. Not only did he own the glass and lead Kentucky in points, but he was a force on both ends of the court like nothing we have seen in Lexington in quite some time. </p>
<p id="om5tLz">Oscar very well may challenge Julius Randle’s double-double record for a season this year. And here is the thing: he will get better. He can finish better around the basket. He can defend better. He can pass better. </p>
<p id="gYSJQj">Oscar Tshiebwe has the ability to dominate college basketball this season. And once this team starts to put it all together, that is bad news for everyone not rocking Kentucky blue. </p>
<p id="jdFNv0"><strong>Perimeter Defense Trends Up, Interior Defense Not So Much</strong></p>
<p id="3H8IsF">A big question after Kentucky’s scare against Miles College was the perimeter defense. While Duke did not appear to be focused on shooting three-pointers, Kentucky was able to hold them to just 7.7% shooting from deep. That is a great number and, regardless of Duke’s game plan, a great sign for this defense moving forward. </p>
<p id="h5ITTH">However, the Blue Devils got way too many open looks around the basket. Oscar Tshiebwe is a fantastic rebounder, but he was not the rim protector this team needed in Madison Square Garden on Tuesday. And with Daimion Collins and Lance Ware seeing very limited minutes, somebody has to be able to keep the opposition from scoring at will in the paint. </p>
<p id="3mtBFf"><strong>Duke is Legit</strong></p>
<p id="AY7xyZ">I know all Kentucky basketball fans like to hate on Duke, but this is a VERY talented team. They play very well in transition, get to the basket from every position, and have a lot of young and experienced guys that can play.</p>
<p id="KCS0YT">Even though Kentucky shot poorly from the floor and got abused in the paint, they were still in the game until the very end. Once this Kentucky team has time to play together, gel on defense, and get this rotation figured out, I have no doubt that this team will be just fine. </p>
<p id="nyWO6x">Now is time to have a short memory, keep working hard, and move on to the next game. What were your thoughts on the 2021 Champion’s Classic?</p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/9/22773683/kentucky-basketball-duke-blue-devils-score-recap-newsJamie Boggs2021-11-09T19:00:42-05:002021-11-09T19:00:42-05:00Kentucky vs. Duke game thread and pregame reading
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ruc8aBms_KeygZcHw6Zm7fR6LuI=/417x0:4495x2719/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70119550/wildcat_mascot.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Drew Brown - Sea of Blue</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>We made it.</p> <p id="vPQ9Fs">The <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> take on the <a href="https://www.dukebasketballreport.com">Duke Blue Devils</a> tonight at approximately 9:30 pm ET in New York City at historic Madison Square Garden. You can watch the game on ESPN, or you can stream it online at <a href="https://www.espn.com/watch/catalog/e748f3c0-3f7c-3088-a90a-0ccb2588e0ed#bucketId=29789">WatchESPN</a> and with the <a href="http://www.espn.com/espn/apps/espn">ESPN app</a>.</p>
<p id="nk26EJ">Well, we’ve finally made it. The College basketball season tips off tonight in what is sure to be an exciting one. </p>
<p id="T3bwG8">Last season was not a good one for blue bloods like Kentucky and Duke. Don’t expect that to continue into this season.</p>
<p id="3nf7Jp">John Calipari and Mike Krzyzewski are two of the best to ever do it, and both of them took what happened to their teams last year personally.</p>
<p id="FV4dkH">Tonight is going to be a lot of fun. I’m not really sure how it’s going to turn out, but all we can ask for is a competitive game to continue the momentum we’ve seen from this team in the preseason.</p>
<p id="IPJjbd">Get ready for a big night by checking out some of these pregame reads:</p>
<ul>
<li id="cLFD2C"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/7/22767487/kentucky-basketball-duke-time-tv-channel-online-stream-predictions-odds">Kentucky vs. Duke preview, how to watch and follow</a></li>
<li id="7MiFyE"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/9/22770274/kentucky-wildcats-duke-basketball-picks-odds-betting-2021">Kentucky vs. Duke odds, betting trends, expert picks, and a prediction</a></li>
<li id="PUkDg7"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/8/22770151/kentucky-wildcats-basketbal-champions-classic-history">Kentucky’s best performances of the Champions Classic</a></li>
<li id="224Ty2"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/8/22770576/kentucky-wildcats-basketball-nil-deal-morgan-and-morgan">UK inks NIL Deal with Morgan & Morgan; gets billboard in New York</a></li>
<li id="yxUBgG"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/8/22770342/cj-fredrick-injury-uk-basketball-news">CJ Fredrick has resumed practicing</a></li>
<li id="WXz9Wt"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/7/22768623/cason-wallace-kentucky-wildcats-basketball-uk-recruiting-highlights-tennessee-vols">Cason Wallace commits to Kentucky over Tennessee</a></li>
<li id="L8ctmz"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/7/22768511/kentucky-basketball-almost-a-halloween-horror-night">Almost a Halloween Horror Night</a></li>
<li id="rp8mPp"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/8/22769681/uk-basketball-duke-blue-devils-2021-champions-classic">Who wins Kentucky vs. Duke?</a></li>
<li id="nff9pI"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/22687590/ncaa-college-basketball-preseason-ucla-gonzaga-duke-kentucky-villanova-drew-timme-chet-holmgren">The Martinez 2021 College Basketball Preseason Tiered Top 39 Rankings</a></li>
<li id="RZsNx7"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/5/13/22364430/kentucky-basketball-recruiting-2022-class-recruits-commits-targets-offers">Kentucky basketball recruiting in the 2022 class: What to know</a></li>
<li id="0WB8Fz"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/6/22767770/kentucky-basketball-news-kwame-evans-jr">Kentucky offers Kwame Evans Jr.</a></li>
<li id="eqRgy1"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/6/22767187/john-calipari-uk-wildcats-recap-miles-college">John Calipari and Wildcats recap win over Miles College</a></li>
</ul>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="01eypk">
<p id="I9M21v">Now, let’s get this party started! </p>
<p id="hlFb34">Go Cats!</p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/9/22771625/how-to-watch-stream-uk-basketball-duke-live-blog-champions-classic-2021TJ Barnett2021-11-09T15:44:47-05:002021-11-09T15:44:47-05:00Kentucky vs. Duke time, TV channel, online stream, rosters, replay & HYPE video
<figure>
<img alt="Keion Brooks" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CSVHGFa2If4r5kgPKYhdygrV018=/416x0:1684x845/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70109650/keion_brooks__uk_.5.jpg" />
<figcaption>UK Athletics</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Everything you need for Wildcats vs. Blue Devils to tip off the new season.</p> <h2 id="s4Ay7P">
<a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> vs. <a href="https://www.dukebasketballreport.com">Duke Blue Devils</a>
</h2>
<ul>
<li id="ecupca">
<strong>Time</strong>: Approximately 9:30 pm ET, though we should expect it to be closer to 10 pm following the conclusion of Kansas vs. <a href="https://www.theonlycolors.com">Michigan State</a> in Game 1 of the 2021 Champions Classic.</li>
<li id="XrivSB">
<strong>TV Channel</strong>: ESPN will have tonight’s TV coverage.</li>
<li id="e47aWR">
<strong>Announcers</strong>: Dan Shulman, Jay Bilas and the great Holly Rowe are calling the action for ESPN.</li>
<li id="hpHpVh">
<strong>Live Online Stream: </strong>You can stream the game online using <a href="https://www.espn.com/watch/catalog/e748f3c0-3f7c-3088-a90a-0ccb2588e0ed#bucketId=29789"><strong>WatchESPN</strong></a> and the <a href="http://www.espn.com/espn/apps/espn"><strong>ESPN app</strong></a>, or use <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fubo.tv%2Fwelcome%3Fu%3Dhttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.fubo.tv%2Fwelcome%3Fu%3Dhttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.fubo.tv%2Fwelcome%3Fu%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.fubo.tv%252Fwelcome%253Fu%253Dhttps%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.fubo.tv%25252Fwelcome%25253Fu%25253Dhttps%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.fubo.tv%25252Fwelcome%25253Fu%25253Dhttps%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.fubo.tv%25252Fwelcome%25253Fu%25253Dhttps%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.fubo.tv%25252Fwelcome%25253Fu%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.fubo.tv%2525252Fwelcome%2525253Fu%2525253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.fubo.tv%2525252Flp%2525252Ffootball%2525252F%2525253Fbgvideo%2525253Dnfl.mp4%25252526title%2525253DLive%2525252520Football.%2525252520Stream%2525252520and%2525252520DVR.%25252526priceline%2525253D*Regional%2525252520and%2525252520mobile%2525252520restrictions%2525252520apply%25252526cta%2525253DGet%25252525207-Day%2525252520Free%2525252520Trial%2525252520Now%25252526irad%2525253D356362%25252526irmp%2525253D482924%25252526sharedid%2525253DCincyJungle%25252526sharedid%2525253Dsbnation.com%25252526subId2%2525253D%252525255B%252525255Dsb%252525255Bp%252525255D21961295%252525255Bt%252525255Dw%252525255Br%252525255Dgoogle.com%252525255Bd%252525255DD%252526sharedid%25253Dsbnation.com%252526sharedid%25253Dsbnation.com%252526subId2%25253D%2525255B%2525255Dsb%2525255Bp%2525255D22453492%2525255Bt%2525255Dw%2525255Br%2525255Dgoogle.com%2525255Bd%2525255DD%252526sharedid%25253Dsbnation.com%252526subId2%25253D%2525255B%2525255Dsb%2525255Bp%2525255D22458181%2525255Bt%2525255Dw%2525255Br%2525255Dgoogle.com%2525255Bd%2525255DD%252526sharedid%25253Dsbnation.com%252526subId2%25253D%2525255B%2525255Dsb%2525255Bp%2525255D22479155%2525255Bt%2525255Dw%2525255Br%2525255Dgoogle.com%2525255Bd%2525255DD%2526sharedid%253Dsbnation.com%26sharedid%3Dsbnation.com%26sharedid%3Dsbnation.com%26subId2%3D%255B%255Dsb%255Bp%255D22513166%255Bt%255Dw%255Br%255Dgoogle.com%255Bd%255DD%26sharedid%3Dsbnation.com%26subId2%3D%255B%255Dsb%255Bp%255D22513221%255Bt%255Dw%255Br%255Dgoogle.com%255Bd%255DD&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aseaofblue.com%2F2021%2F11%2F7%2F22767487%2Fkentucky-basketball-duke-time-tv-channel-online-stream-predictions-odds" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>a free trial of fuboTV</strong></a>.</li>
<li id="33Yc9A">
<strong>Replay:</strong> <a href="https://www.espn.com/watch/"><strong>WatchESPN</strong></a> and the SEC Network (check local listings).</li>
<li id="rnXMHo">
<strong>Radio</strong>: Tom Leach and Mike Pratt have the <a href="https://ukathletics.com/signingday/general/general/3/"><strong>UK Sports Network</strong></a> call, including 630 AM and 98.1 FM in Lexington.</li>
<li id="Y02h7e">
<strong>Satellite Radio</strong>: Sirius 134 | XM 190 | SXM App 961</li>
<li id="e6BRj1">
<strong>Rosters: </strong><a href="https://ukathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster"><strong>UK</strong></a><strong>| </strong><a href="https://goduke.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster"><strong>DU</strong></a>
</li>
<li id="RPcw4I">
<strong>Odds: </strong>Duke is a 3-point favorite, <a href="https://dksb.sng.link/As9kz/5pdi?_dl=https%3A%2F%2Fsportsbook.draftkings.com%2Fgate[%E2%80%A6]Vox%26wpcrid%3DCBB&pcid=166791&pscn=CBB&pcrn=Inartcile&psn=Vox">according to DraftKings</a>. <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/game/_/gameId/401369850">ESPN’s matchup predictor</a> is giving the Cats a 62.7% chance at victory.</li>
<li id="qlj5MQ">
<strong>Prediction</strong>: <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/game/_/gameId/401369850">TeamRankings</a> has Duke winning 75-72. <a href="https://www.oddsshark.com/ncaab/kentucky-duke-odds-november-9-2021-1485036">OddShark</a> has the Blue Devils winning 73-71. <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/9/22770274/kentucky-wildcats-duke-basketball-picks-odds-betting-2021">Go here for more predictions and betting trends</a>.</li>
<li id="KcG7oe"><a href="http://stats.statbroadcast.com/statmonitr/?id=377867">Live Stats</a></li>
<li id="8LmL46"><a href="https://files.provationsgroupcdn.com/publications/Kentucky-vs-Duke-Basketball-Gameday-2021-22/index.html#page=1">Digital Gameday Guide</a></li>
</ul>
<p id="uYDh2z"></p>
<div id="ZOwED0"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n9aUU_FM8Lc?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture;"></iframe></div></div>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="wJOtKG">
<p id="loYM9x">This is it.</p>
<p id="yXdc6q">The one we’ve all been waiting for.</p>
<p id="YPJmoX"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> vs. <a href="https://www.dukebasketballreport.com">Duke Blue Devils</a> in Madison Square Garden to open the college basketball season is as good as it gets for hoops junkies.</p>
<p id="Rqo5yA">After a miserable 9-16 campaign, the Cats simply couldn’t have a better opportunity to remind America that last season was a complete fluke.</p>
<p id="zVh54F">The match-up is set to tip off Tuesday night at 9:30 pm ET and will feature two top-10 teams. The preseason rankings have the Blue Devils ranked ninth with Kentucky right on their heels at 10th.</p>
<p id="02dezZ">If at all possible, get a nap on Tuesday afternoon or attempt to make adjustments that allow for a little extra sleep on Wednesday morning.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Business trip to the city <a href="https://t.co/cRbG0yFCWj">pic.twitter.com/cRbG0yFCWj</a></p>— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KentuckyMBB/status/1458143372493918208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2021</a>
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<p id="pJavv4">Obviously, UK provided plenty of reason for concern during in their lackluster performance against Division II Miles College on Friday. If we see another stretch of basketball like the first half of that exhibition game then the Cats are toast against Duke.</p>
<p id="wy3MmU">Point, blank, period.</p>
<p id="DGIV3M">But on the flip-side maybe a wake-up call before the playing some much improved competition will end up as a net positive for Calipari’s completely revamped roster.</p>
<aside id="8sNuzX"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Kentucky vs. Duke odds, betting trends, expert picks, and a prediction","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/9/22770274/kentucky-wildcats-duke-basketball-picks-odds-betting-2021"},{"title":"Kentucky’s best performances of the Champions Classic","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/8/22770151/kentucky-wildcats-basketbal-champions-classic-history"},{"title":"Who wins Kentucky vs. Duke?","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2021/11/8/22769681/uk-basketball-duke-blue-devils-2021-champions-classic"}]}'></div></aside><p id="8PwPoL">Now in its eleventh year, the Champions Classic has taught us that an on-time tip-off for the second game, which Kentucky seemingly always plays in, is a pipe dream. Not to mention the anticipated theatrics of kicking off Coach K’s farewell season. I’d imagine ESPN will do some form of video tribute or something similar for the legendary college basketball icon.</p>
<p id="zFfrqS">Mike Krzyzewski is slated to hand over the Blue Devil program to assistant coach and former player, Jon Scheyer, at the end of the 2021-2022 season.</p>
<p id="pOYIMh">You’ll get plenty of jabber about the Duke coaching transition so let’s move on.</p>
<p id="FHQQI1">Unfortunately another frequently brought up topic on Tuesday night is sure to be reminiscing on the last time that Coach Cal and Coach K faced off in the Champions Classic.</p>
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<p id="EtAEht">I probably don’t need to remind you that the Cats were beaten like a drum back in 2018 inside Indy’s Bankers Life Fieldhouse.</p>
<p id="tXc16S">The 118-84 loss to Zion and the Dukies was one of the low points of the Calipari era and absolutely not something that anyone wants to see replicated in the Garden.</p>
<p id="9Gt31M">But this isn’t 2018, and it’s probably fair to assume that most players on both rosters don’t really remember the details of that contest like fans do.</p>
<p id="dySMH8">This year’s Blue Devil squad is led by freshman phenom power forward Paolo Banchero from Seattle. I saw Banchero play when he was a junior in high school, and he’s a complete man-child on the court.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I didn’t realize that Paolo Banchero is 6-10. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBN?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBN</a> <a href="https://t.co/M4tUCy2OLm">pic.twitter.com/M4tUCy2OLm</a></p>— Big Blue Drew (@BigBlueDrew33) <a href="https://twitter.com/BigBlueDrew33/status/1207850914775650304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2019</a>
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<p id="arAj7Q">Even in a high-level Division I game, you can still count on Banchero having a considerable advantage in the paint. He’s also extremely versatile and a capable scorer on the perimeter.</p>
<p id="X9g8Py">Banchero dominated Duke’s only exhibition game by scoring 21 points and yanking down nine rebounds in only 20 minutes of playing time.</p>
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<p id="Wwz4QE">Duke would go on to win that game against Winston-Salem State by a score of 106-38, quite the opposite showing when you compare it to Kentucky being down at the half to Miles College.</p>
<p id="wolNRY">Banchero’s supporting cast is littered with elite talent as well. Many of the players also held a Kentucky offer but ultimately ended up in Durham for one last ride with Coach K.</p>
<p id="0WR5tP">Trevor Keels and Jeremy Roach will handle the bulk of the back-court responsibilities for Duke.</p>
<p id="0MIbAw">Roach, a sophomore guard, was once seen as a heavy Kentucky lean before injuring his knee in high school and changing directions with his career. He had 10 points and seven assists in their exhibition blowout.</p>
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<p id="2DBqFU">Keels on the other hand was a long shot for Calipari to sign considering how late UK was to get involved. The former 5-star combo guard has the ability to take over a game if allowed. I predict Keels will be getting very familiar with UK point guard Sahvir Wheeler if necessary.</p>
<p id="iwSK18">Early on Wheeler’s on-ball defense has been utterly incredible and a major reason why Kentucky didn’t suffer a historically embarrassing loss on Friday night.</p>
<p id="YW34Nq">Next up for Duke we have one of their team captains, Wendell Moore Jr.</p>
<p id="e3uen2">The junior forward has showed signs of steady improvement in his first two seasons in Durham. With several key Blue Devils having little to no experience, Wendell Moore Jr’s resume of 49 starts could play a pivotal role in the game.</p>
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<p id="BZ8p3x">Interior defense has already emerged as a potential thorn in this Kentucky team’s side.</p>
<p id="O0rh1d">What happens if Oscar Tshiebwe gets in foul trouble?</p>
<p id="rPfdVS">That’s a question most members of the Big Blue Nation aren’t prepared to answer.</p>
<p id="eR0cfA">Duke’s 7-foot center Mark Williams is a proven big man and will be a load in the paint. Over the final 14 games of last season, Williams led his team in rebounding, field goal percentage and blocked shots.</p>
<p id="LALZ4m">Attacking Williams with a committee approach may be Cal’s best option. Tshiebwe, Ware, Brooks and Collins are all likely to get their shot at guarding Duke’s interior threats.</p>
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<p id="mPfMTL">The Blue Devils’ senior sharp-shooter, Joey Baker, will be the one to watch out for on the perimeter. In the 2019-2020 he shot near 40% from three.</p>
<p id="FQdcTh">Duke’s wildcard in this one will be freshman forward AJ Griffin. Another former 5-star recruit that UK pursued, Griffin suffered a knee injury in early October that was projected to sideline him 4-6 weeks. However, he played in the exhibition win and chipped in 10 points off the bench.</p>
<p id="wRkMZM">Griffin was once a top-10 recruit before injuries led to him falling down the rankings, but make no mistake that he’s a dynamic forward who could make a major impact in this one if UK doesn’t come prepared.</p>
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<p id="k5uNPC">No matter how things go in the Champions Classic we will learn a lot about this Kentucky team on Tuesday night. How they play in a nationally televised game in the most famous sports venue in the entire world will tell us a hell of a lot more than a home exhibition game against a Division II opponent. </p>
<p id="1dbWWk">Calipari’s roster has a unique make-up this year in the fact that we still really don’t know who will emerge as the star. It seems like TyTy Washington is poised to be the Cats’ “best” player, but there are still so many directions the statistical breakdown could go. </p>
<p id="KNZ8qr">I believe you could legitimately name five to six players on this team who could lead Kentucky in scoring against Duke and nobody would be very surprised by that result. </p>
<p id="kzeFjP">One player I will be keeping my eye on is freshman forward Daimion Collins. The jury is still out on whether or not Collins will be ready to contribute much this season or if he is a true multi-year project that will play very limited minutes this season. </p>
<p id="ICqvBE">If Collins can get a little meaner and find a groove, his athleticism could prove to be a game-changer over the duration of a long season with a team that is seemingly thin in the front-court. </p>
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<p id="InR3DU">Calipari is sure to experiment with different line-ups considering it’s Game 1. But we’ll have a much better sense of whom he wants on the floor when it matters. </p>
<p id="qOE15x">Even though it’s certain to provide some cringe moments, it’ll still be neat to square off against a legendary college basketball coach as he begins his final season. </p>
<p id="EsDntn">Don’t forget about taking that nap on Tuesday afternoon if you can make it happen. </p>
<p id="hHSz9y">Win or lose, emotions will run high on Tuesday when Kentucky and Duke slug it out in the Champions Classic inside Madison Square Garden. But more importantly, it’s time to celebrate the return of normal college basketball following last season’s restricted campaign due to the COVID-19 pandemic. </p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Big lights will inspire you <a href="https://t.co/fKpFpBAu4I">pic.twitter.com/fKpFpBAu4I</a></p>— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KentuckyMBB/status/1457865487652638720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2021</a>
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