Kentucky basketball outlasts physical Bearcats

The Kentucky Wildcats have done what no other Division I team has EVER done, start a season 36-0. Kentucky was able to get the sixth straight double-digit win beating Cincinnati 64-51.

This latest win was a far more physical and testing battle than what the Cats had in their first round game against Hampton. Cincinnati made it clear coming into the game that they were not afraid of the Wildcats or their record. Bearcat guard Kevin Johnson said before the game “there’s no pressure. It’ll be fun. We’re trying to make history.”

The Big Blue Behemoth didn’t come out and fire on all cylinders like the fans are used to. Cincinnati deserves some credit for that, their physical play made life hard for Kentucky. The Cats started the game off 1-8 and finished up only shooting 37% from the field, one of the lowest percentages for the season.

UK was able to make up for the poor shooting at the free throw line today. Hitting 20 of 28 attempts was really a boost for the struggling offense.

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Kentucky’s defense is what helped keep them in the game early while they were finding their offensive rhythm. The Wildcats smothered Cincinnati and held them to 31% shooting from the field. This is what we have come to expect from UK this season. Kentucky added on a nice 9 blocks with Karl-Anthony Towns leading the way returning 3 shots back to sender.

The Wildcats were led by Aaron Harrison on offense who put up 13 points. Not far behind him Trey Lyles posted a double-double chipping in 11 points and grabbing a team high 11 rebounds. Freshman Tyler Ulis had a team high 5 assists.

Kentucky will be advancing to the Sweet 16 for the 41st time in school history. They will be trying to extend their historic win streak against the winner of the Maryland-West Virginia game on Wednesday. Let’s hope that the Cats will figure out their shooting woes and keep the run going!