Down the stretch, it was the talented freshmen from Kentucky who stepped up and handled the pressure with composure. This was evident in the game’s final moments, as Kentucky’s freshman players scored the team’s last eight points and a remarkable 18 of their final 20. Rob Dillingham, who came off the bench, led UK with 17 points, followed by fellow freshman D.J. Wagner with 14 points and Aaron Bradshaw with 12. Reed Sheppard contributed 11 points off the bench as well, while Justin Edwards added another eight points. Overall, the freshmen accounted for an impressive 62 of Kentucky’s 87 points.

Leading the way for the Cardinals was Kiki Jefferson, who had an impressive game with 19 points, six rebounds, and five assists. This performance marked her seventh consecutive game scoring in double figures. Olivia Cochran also had a solid showing with 12 points and six rebounds, while Sydney Taylor contributed 13 points and three assists.

The game will be broadcast on SEC Network+, with Jeff Piecoro and Christi Thomas providing commentary. Fans can also tune in to the play-by-play on UK Sports Network and 630 AM WLAP, with Darren Headrick serving as the voice of the Wildcats.

This will only be the second meeting between these two teams, with Pepperdine coming out on top in their first encounter back in 1950. Both teams will be eager to secure a victory in this matchup.

Fans attending the Grand Slam Social will have the opportunity to meet head coach Holly Aprile and the 2024 squad as they gear up for the upcoming season. The admission fee for the event is $30 and includes a full buffet, a special player and coach meet-and-greet, a poster, autographs, and a ticket to the women’s basketball game against Pittsburgh.

The competition will include events such as the 1-meter springboard, 3-meter springboard, platform, and the new team event format. Kentucky has already had a strong season, with five individuals earning eight NCAA zone cuts. Abby Devereaux leads the pack with qualifying scores on all three apparatuses, while Sam Duncan has cuts for both the 1-meter and 3-meter springboards. Claire McDaniels, Devynn Bishop, and Kristy Pfaff have also achieved zone standard scores on their respective events.

“It’s kind of ironic to see them again,” Leary said about facing Clemson. “They’re a great team. We know it’s going to be a good challenge. It’s up to us to prepare during this time and make sure that we’re ready to take them on.”

Once the game begins, get ready for an unforgettable experience as two renowned voices take center stage. Tom Leach and Jack ‘Goose’ Givens will be your guides, calling every play and bringing the excitement straight to your living room. Their expert commentary and insightful analysis will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the game.

Beard, a senior and a two-year starter, has been with the Louisville program for four seasons. He boasts an impressive career, having played in 118 games with a .297 average, 11 home runs, and 88 RBIs. His performance earned him the title of Freshman All-American in 2022.

Louisville comes into the game with an impressive six-game winning streak, following their 74-48 victory over Morehead State on Wednesday. The Cardinals have been dominant at home this season, boasting a 6-0 record in front of their home crowd. Their latest win saw Olivia Cochran shine, as she contributed 16 points and secured her second double-double of the season with 11 rebounds.