Kentucky Basketball blows out NC Central: 4 things to know and postgame cheers

Kentucky basketball shook off a sluggish start and dominated NC Central in a blowout win, flashing its most complete stretch of basketball this season, winning by a final score of 103-67. It marked UK’s eighth game over 100+ points under Mark Pope, good for the second-most in the SEC over the last two seasons.

After trading baskets early, the Wildcats ignited a 16–0 run that completely flipped the momentum. It was the best run Kentucky has produced all year, fueled by defensive pressure. In the first half alone, the Wildcats recorded five steals and forced eight turnovers, turning giveaways into easy transition points.

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While the defense set the tone, Kentucky’s offense was sparked by breakout performances from Trent Noah and Otega Oweh. Noah delivered his best half in a Kentucky uniform, scoring 11 first-half points while shooting 4-of-7 from the field and 3-of-5 from deep. He added two rebounds, one assist, and a steal, showing the kind of all-around efficiency the coaching staff has been hoping to unlock.

Oweh matched that energy with 12 first-half points on a near-perfect 5-of-7 shooting, including 2-of-2 from three. He also grabbed six rebounds and tallied two steals, consistently impacting the game on both ends.

Kentucky carried a 51–32 lead into the locker room, and the second half never saw NC Central threaten. The Wildcats maintained their defensive pressure, continued to run the floor, and cruised to a comfortable victory.

It was the kind of all-around performance Kentucky needed and one that could serve as a turning point as the schedule gets harder.

Here are four things to know from this one.

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1. Mark Pope lights fire into team and Brandon Garrison

Kentucky head coach Mark Pope didn’t hide his emotions during Tuesday night’s win, and his intensity was felt from the opening minutes during halftime. Even in a game the Wildcats controlled, Pope made it clear he expects much more. During his halftime radio interview, Pope bluntly called…

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Publish date : 2025-12-10 01:47:00

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