In a surprising turn of events, the Kentucky women’s basketball team witnessed a role reversal from two of its guards. Saniya Tyler, who had started nearly every game this season, was asked to come off the bench against Furman on Sunday. On the other hand, Cassidy Rowe, who had only started one game this season, was given the starting position against the Paladins.
Both Tyler and Rowe thrived in their new roles, contributing to Kentucky’s dominant 75-45 victory at Rupp Arena. Tyler had a career-high 17 points, leading the team, while Rowe also had a career-high in points with seven and in rebounds with five. In addition, Rowe showcased her versatility with two assists, a blocked shot, and a steal.
UK head coach Kyra Elzy explained that the change in the starting lineup was a reward for Rowe’s hard work. Elzy praised Rowe’s performance in practice, highlighting her shooting ability, hustle plays, and defensive contributions. Elzy was pleased with Rowe’s solid performance, which included seven points, five rebounds, and a solid assist-to-turnover ratio.
The change also had a positive impact on Tyler, according to Coach Elzy. Tyler came off the bench and had a solid day, playing basketball without the added pressure of starting. Elzy commended Tyler for her performance and acknowledged the improvement in her game.
Ajae Petty had 16 points and nine rebounds for Kentucky, while Maddie Scherr contributed 13 points, eight assists, five rebounds, and five steals.
Kentucky took an early lead with a three-pointer from Scherr and a basket from Petty. Although Furman made a late run in the first period, UK led 16-15 after the first 10 minutes. The Cats started the second period strong, with threes from Scherr and Tyler, as well as a runner from Petty, extending their lead to 24-15. Furman managed to cut the deficit to five points, 28-23, before Kentucky closed out the half with a 9-0 run, including five points from Cassidy Rowe, to hold a 37-23 lead at halftime.
Furman tried to make a comeback at the start of the third period, but Kentucky responded with a 20-8 run, led by Emma King’s six points, to secure a 57-35 advantage heading into the final quarter. In the final stanza, Kentucky continued its dominance, outscoring Furman 18-10 and achieving their biggest lead of the game, 30 points.
Kentucky now looks ahead to their next game against Lipscomb on Thursday at Rupp Arena. This will be their final contest before the holiday break, with tipoff scheduled for 11 a.m. The game can be seen on SEC Network Plus.
