In a highly anticipated match against Penn, Kentucky’s Aaron Bradshaw showed significant improvement from his previous performance. The freshman player, who had seen limited action in the previous game, stepped up and delivered a career-best performance on Saturday.
Bradshaw demonstrated his potential as he achieved his first double-double, recording 17 points and 11 rebounds in the game. He also contributed three blocked shots and a steal, showcasing his defensive skills. In addition to this remarkable feat, Bradshaw even managed to sink his first career three-pointer, highlighting his versatility as a player.
Joining Bradshaw in an outstanding display of talent were fellow freshmen Rob Dillingham and Antonio Reeves. Dillingham matched Bradshaw’s 17 points, and Reeves added 16 points to the scoreboard. D.J. Wagner, who returned from an ankle injury, made a significant impact on the game as well, contributing nine points and seven assists.
The game started off tightly contested, but a determined Kentucky squad managed to pull ahead with a 19-12 lead. Penn quickly responded with a 9-2 run, narrowing the deficit to two points at 23-21. However, the Cats turned up the heat. Dillingham sank a three-pointer, Bradshaw scored with a layup, Reeves made a jumper, and Sheppard added a three-pointer, resulting in a commanding 33-12 lead. The scoring spree continued as Wagner, Mitchell, and Bradshaw added baskets, completing a 16-2 run and securing a 39-23 advantage for Kentucky by halftime.
Penn gained momentum at the start of the second half, mounting a 7-2 run to bring themselves within five points at 41-36. They managed to cut the deficit to just two before Sheppard intercepted a pass and swiftly scored a layup. This play gave Kentucky a much-needed boost and extended their lead to 47-43. Although Penn remained persistent, the Cats countered with a 9-3 run, led by Dillingham’s six points and Bradshaw’s three-pointer.
Kentucky held a 61-51 lead following Wagner’s three-pointer, but Penn fought back with consecutive threes, narrowing the margin to 61-57 with 10:18 remaining in the game. Without faltering, Reeves became a vital figure in a decisive 9-0 run for UK, propelling them to a comfortable 70-57 advantage with 7:35 left on the clock.
Kentucky’s next challenge comes in the form of a highly anticipated clash against North Carolina at the CBS Sports Classic in Atlanta. The game is scheduled for next Saturday at 5:30 p.m. ET and will be televised on CBS. Fans and basketball enthusiasts alike eagerly await this exciting matchup.
