Kentucky Coasts Past Mount St. Mary’s 82-62
By Peggy Gilligan
Tonight the Cats allowed the Mountaineers to keep it fairly close in the first half leading by only five at the intermission. Finally back with all nine scholarship players able to play this evening. E.J.Montgomery looked like his old self helping the team in all aspects scoring, rebounding and playing defense. Quickley was back after missing the Utah Valley game on Monday with a bruised sternum. Quickley was able to hit 3 of 4 3 pointers in his 22 minutes of playing time tonight. The largest lead UK was able to manage in the first half was 7 points and St. Mary’s best scoring run was 7 points as well.
Coach Dan Engelstad of the Mountaineers was very complementary of the opportunity to play UK in Rupp Arena. He spoke in the post game press conference about his players learning from the experience even with the loss.
The second half was much different. The Cats returned from the locker room on fire. Shooting was improved from 51.9 in the first to 57.1% in the second. The non existent 3 point shooting in the first half of 1-5 was much better to 50% in the final 20 minutes for 40% and a game total of 6-15 for 40%. The Wildcats won the rebounding battle but Coach Cal was not pleased with only 6 offensive rebounds of a total of 35 rebound in the game.
Coach Cal was pleased with the ball sharing tonight. He stated the passing was much better. He also felt the team made strides on both offense and defense during the game.
The Cats have a quick turn around with the next game on Sunday against Lamar at 6:00 pm in Rupp Arena.