Even if John Calipari is no longer there, the Kentucky Wildcats are still the Kentucky Wildcats. As such, they’re expected to perform at a championship-caliber level.



Nonetheless, things won’t get much easier for them on Friday. They will square off against the Alabama Crimson Tide, one of the most frenetic and electrifying teams in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball. </a>



That’s why Mark Pope doesn’t want his team to rest on their laurels. When asked about his upcoming opponents, he raved about their potency and ability to push the pace. 



<h2>Mark Pope claims Alabama is ‘Potent’</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Alabama right now is, of course, they’ve always been so potent, demanding shooting guards’ space, their pace is elite,” Pope said. “I don’t know if the metrics change every but they are one of the fastest-playing teams in the country.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250117_BUS_315579_Mark-Pope-1-1024x576_58951cdd.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-289786" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mark Pope of the Kentucky Wildcats.</figcaption></figure>



That kind of fast-paced offense will definitely put the Wildcats’ defense to the test. There will be no time to celebrate a big play; everybody will have to get back on defense right away:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“And when you break down their possession usage in the first six seconds and second six seconds of the shot clock, after makes, that’s actually when they’re the most, they punish you,” Pope continued.</blockquote>



The Crimson Tide also has a proficient bench that averages 35.1 points per game. That could pose a threat to Pope’s team, as they’ve struggled without the starters at times.

NCAAB News: Mark Pope explains why Alabama could be a problem for Kentucky

NCAAB News: Mark Pope explains why Alabama could be a problem for Kentucky - Bolavip US

miniaturas

For most of their history, the Kentucky Wildcats have been considered to be one of the teams to beat in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>. Not even losing John Calipari should change that image.



Nonetheless, it seems like opposing teams don’t have that same level of fear and respect for Mark Pope’s team. If anything, the narrative around them is that they’re rather ‘soft.’



That’s why Jaxson Robinson and his team looked to make an example in the win over Texas A&amp;M. Robinson scored 22 points and stared down at the opposition’s bench after a big three-pointer, and the whole team looked angry. When asked about that, he sent the naysayers a message.



<h2>Jaxson Robinson says the Wildcats took those ‘soft’ allegations personally </h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“We’ve been hearing the soft word thrown around with this Kentucky jersey,” Robinson said. “We take that personally. We don’t think people are saying that anymore. We went out and showed it the last two games.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250116_BUS_314335_Jaxson-Robinson1-1024x576_66722e60.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-314242" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/15152528/Jaxson-Robinson1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/15152528/Jaxson-Robinson1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/15152528/Jaxson-Robinson1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/15152528/Jaxson-Robinson1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/15152528/Jaxson-Robinson1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/15152528/Jaxson-Robinson1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/15152528/Jaxson-Robinson1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/15152528/Jaxson-Robinson1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jaxson Robinson #2 of the Kentucky Wildcats in action against the Ohio State Buckeyes</figcaption></figure>



Mark Pope’s team brought a different kind of physicality against Robinson’s former team. That was a much different effort from their tough loss to Georgia two games ago.


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The No. 8 Kentucky Wildcats will always be held to a different standard, and they cannot be allowed to be pushed around when they face No. 4 Alabama on Saturday.

NCAAB News: Jaxson Robinson claps back at 'soft' allegations about Kentucky

NCAAB News: Jaxson Robinson claps back at 'soft' allegations about Kentucky - Bolavip US

When we hear the name ‘Kentucky Wildcats,‘ we usually expect them to be national championship contenders. They’re one of the biggest powerhouses in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> history.



That’s also the case this year. They’re currently ranked at No. 6, which is why it was so surprising to see them drop a game to the Georgia Bulldogs by double digits.



Needless to say, coach Mark Pope was far from satisfied with his team’s performance. Following the loss, he threw them under the bus and called their effort on the glass ‘unacceptable.’



<h2>Mark Pope rips Kentucky after loss to Georgia</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Yeah, they had 15 (offensive rebounds) today,” Pope said. “And it’s back-to-back games where we gave up 15 offensive rebounds. And that’s, man, that’s a real bell we’ve got to ring. It’s unacceptable for us, and it’s … a sign of distraction.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250111_BUS_310467_Mark-Pope-1024x576_dbc22713.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope" class="wp-image-285800" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kentucky head coach Mark Pope watches his team play against Lipscomb on Tuesday night, Nov. 19, 2024, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky</figcaption></figure>



The Bulldogs won the rebounding battle 41-34, including 15 offensive boards. On top of that, the Wildcats shot just 37.5% from the field and 24% from three-point range, far behind their usual standards.


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The Bulldogs should still be able to bounce back, but it won’t get much easier. Up next, they have a trip to play against No. 14 Mississippi State to try and hand them just their second loss of the season.

NCAAB News: Mark Pope rips Kentucky after 'unacceptable' loss to Georgia

NCAAB News: Mark Pope rips Kentucky after 'unacceptable' loss to Georgia - Bolavip US

The Kentucky Wildcats didn’t look like their usual selves on Tuesday night. They failed to keep up with the Georgia Bulldogs, dropping an 82-69 contest against a fellow SEC rival.



They were erratic and couldn’t get into an offensive rhythm. Their opponents, on the other hand, had four different players scoring in double digits and kept pushing the break and sharing the ball.



However, perhaps the most glaring issue came at the free-throw line. The Bulldogs went to the line 38 times, twice as many as Kentucky. Even so, coach Mark Pope won’t blame the loss on the referees. 



<h2>Mark Pope won’t blame the referees for loss to Georgia</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Listen, that doesn’t have anything to do with this game, man,” Pope said. “We leave all that stuff. We’re working on the next play. We’re going to go control the stuff we need to control. And we can control enough factors in this game to win the game. That will always be true. So we refuse to be distracted by that.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250108_BUS_308855_Mark-Pope-1024x576_4d3fe44c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope" class="wp-image-285800" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kentucky head coach Mark Pope watches his team play against Lipscomb on Tuesday night, Nov. 19, 2024, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky</figcaption></figure>



The coach also admitted that his team has had problems maintaining the intensity throughout the entire game. That’s going to be a point of emphasis for Coach Pope:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“We’re starting the game well. We’re starting games well,” Pope said. “The 12- to four-minute segment has been a little problematic for us. We’re doing some deep dives into tandems that work on the floor, but there’s something in there that’s just been troublesome for us. I don’t know if it’s scheme, flow, lineup. We’re still digging into that and we’re fine.”</blockquote>


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Unfortunately, the Wildcats won’t have a lot of time to bounce back and put this loss in the rearview mirror, as three of their next four and four of their next five games will all be against ranked opponents.

NCAAB News: Mark Pope gets real on the referees after loss to Georgia

NCAAB News: Mark Pope gets real on the referees after loss to Georgia - Bolavip US

In an unexpected turn of events, a former National Champion with Kirby Smart’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/georgia-bulldogs">Georgia Bulldogs</a> announced his decision to hang the cleats after four seasons. The talented quarterback leaves with a ludicrous NIL deal, which ranked him among the Top-350 biggest earners in college football.



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kentucky">Kentucky Wildcats</a> learned some bad news as their transfer quarterback decided to retire from the sport. Brock Vandagriff announced he will not be returning for his final year of eligibility to the University of Kentucky, and instead will be moving on from football.



Coming out of high school, Vandagriff was a five-star recruit and joined <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kirby-smart">Kirby Smart</a> and the Georgia Bulldogs where he was a part of the National Championship winning rosters of 2021 and 2022. 



However, his role in the Dawgs program was overshadowed by Stetson Bennett and Carson Beck, and Vandagriff barely saw the field during his three-year stay in Athens, Georgia. In this year’s offseason, the quarterback transferred to Kentucky, but his production was far short from expected.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="574" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241230_BUS_303297_Georgia-quarterback-Brock-Vandagriff-12-attempts-a-pass-during-the-fourth-quarter-against-UT-Martin-1024x574_80918351.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=574" alt="Georgia quarterback Brock Vandagriff 12 attempts a pass during the fourth quarter against UT Martin at Sanford Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023, in Athens, Georgia." class="wp-image-303384" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30163217/Georgia-quarterback-Brock-Vandagriff-12-attempts-a-pass-during-the-fourth-quarter-against-UT-Martin-1024x574.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30163217/Georgia-quarterback-Brock-Vandagriff-12-attempts-a-pass-during-the-fourth-quarter-against-UT-Martin-300x168.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30163217/Georgia-quarterback-Brock-Vandagriff-12-attempts-a-pass-during-the-fourth-quarter-against-UT-Martin-768x430.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30163217/Georgia-quarterback-Brock-Vandagriff-12-attempts-a-pass-during-the-fourth-quarter-against-UT-Martin-1536x861.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30163217/Georgia-quarterback-Brock-Vandagriff-12-attempts-a-pass-during-the-fourth-quarter-against-UT-Martin-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30163217/Georgia-quarterback-Brock-Vandagriff-12-attempts-a-pass-during-the-fourth-quarter-against-UT-Martin-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30163217/Georgia-quarterback-Brock-Vandagriff-12-attempts-a-pass-during-the-fourth-quarter-against-UT-Martin-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30163217/Georgia-quarterback-Brock-Vandagriff-12-attempts-a-pass-during-the-fourth-quarter-against-UT-Martin.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Georgia quarterback Brock Vandagriff 12 attempts a pass during the fourth quarter against UT Martin at Sanford Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023, in Athens, Georgia.</figcaption></figure>



Vandagriff played in eleven games for the Wildcats, throwing for 125 completions, totalling 1,593 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. The low point of his 2024 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> campaign came against the Texas Longhorns, when he was benched midway through the game.


 

 

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<h2>NIL deals</h2>



Today’s college sports cannot be addressed without considering the financial side of them, which fall entirely in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. As Vandagriff retires, just one season after joining the Wildcats’ program, he walks away with significant profits.



His NIL value was at a considerable $310,000, placing him at No. 305 in the College Football NIL rankings. He signed with The 15 Club, a grand NIL partner for big names in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a>. He endorsed EA Sports’ College Football 25 video game and The Dairy Alliance, as well.



Vandagriff’s departure leaves behind a huge void for Kentucky at the quarterback position. The Wildcats will have to pursue some of the talents in the transfer portal, since they haven’t been able to sign any of their QB targets in the 2025 recruit class yet.

Top-350 NIL deal, two-time National Champion quarterback with Kirby Smart's Georgia surprisingly retires

The 30 highest-paid college football head coaches: Who&#039;s earning the most?

NCAAF News: Carson Beck makes final decision on his future with Kirby Smart’s Bulldogs

Top-350 NIL deal, two-time National Champion quarterback with Kirby Smart's Georgia surprisingly retires - Bolavip US

The Kentucky Wildcats have always held a high standard for themselves. As such, it’s not enough to just win and get by: They need to play flawless, winning basketball on both ends of the floor.



Mark Pope’s team was on top of the world. They were riding a seven-game winning streak before a tough loss to the Clemson Tigers. Then, after three wins in a row, they suffered another setback, this time to the Ohio State Buckeyes.



Needless to say, these losses have sounded off the alarms within the program. As good as they’ve been for the most part, the coach is frustrated with their inconsistent shooting.



<h2>Mark Pope is frustrated with Kentucky’s struggles from beyond the arc</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I’m frustrated that we’re not shooting more threes,“ he told Kentucky Today. “It just eats at my heart. I’m like, man, we should be shooting the ball more. We’re working on that. We’re working on that and we’re going to get there.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241228_BUS_302002_Mark-Pope-1-1024x576_75fe4dd4.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-289786" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Dan Hurley of the Connecticut Huskies celebrates with his team during the trophy ceremony after beating the Purdue Boilermakers 75-60 to win the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament National Championship game at State Farm Stadium on April 08, 2024 in Glendale, Arizona. </figcaption></figure>



The Wildcats knocked down just four of 22 three-pointers vs. the Buckeyes, way below the 25 triples they usually hit. That’s also good for just 18% from beyond the arc.


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That’s not going to get the job done against tougher opposition, and with only Koby Brea and Jaxson Robinson consistently hitting threes, the rest of the team will have to get out of this slump in no time.

NCAAB News: Kentucky's Mark Pope admits frustration over one key aspect of his team

NCAAB News: Kentucky's Mark Pope admits frustration over one key aspect of his team - Bolavip US

Mark Pope and the Kentucky Wildcats will have their work cut out for them. The fourth-best team in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> is about to start conference play, and the SEC is no joke.



Conference play can make or break any team’s season, and with the Wildcats eyeing the ultimate prize this year, they know they cannot afford to rest on their laurels.



With that in mind, he sat down with Jon Rothstein to discuss his team’s upcoming schedule on the College Hoops Today podcast, using one word to describe what’s coming: ‘bloodbath.’



<h2>Mark Pope says SEC conference play will be ‘a bloodbath’</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“It is gonna be so sensational, and I’m really happy for our guys that they get to experience this. I’m happy for Big Blue Nation, I’m happy for the SEC, and we can’t wait to get started. That’s actually gonna be the real Christmas present, is that we get to jump in this league, because it’s going to be a bloodbath,” the coach said.</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241219_BUS_296602_Mark-Pope1-1024x576_4a9e60eb.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope" class="wp-image-285801" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption> Kentucky basketball coach Mark Pope didn t produce an NBA draft pick during his nine combined seasons as the head coach at Utah Valley and BYU. (Ryan C. Hermens Lexington Herald-Leader TNS</figcaption></figure>



Pope, who coached the BYU Cougars in the Big 12 before arriving in Kentucky, knows he needs to step up big-time in the next couple of weeks. Even so, he dealt with something similar in his previous stop:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“We’re gonna have like six teams in the top 8 or 9 in the AP Top 25, give or take. …Last year, the Big 12 was the best conference in the country, and every single game was the biggest game of your life. It was just a brawl every game,” Pope said. “This year, that’s the SEC, but times 10. This league is just insanity right now, and as an athlete and as a coach, I think you’d be sad if you were playing in any other league. This is what you dream of. There’s not going to be a lot of time trying to get our guys hyped up to compete in a game.“</blockquote>


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The Wildcats have won three consecutive games and boast a 10-1 record, and they have six players averaging double-digits in scoring for them. They will look to keep their foot on the gas when they meet Ohio State at Madison Square Garden on December 21.

NCAAB News: Mark Pope hypes Kentucky fans up with 'bloodbath' comments ahead of SEC schedule

NCAAB News: Mark Pope hypes Kentucky fans up with 'bloodbath' comments ahead of SEC schedule - Bolavip US

The Kentucky Wildcats got the best of their in-state rivals again. The No. 5 team got past the Louisville Cardinals with a 93-85 win behind a majestic performance from Lamont Butler.



The Wildcats’ point guard scored 33 points and didn’t miss a single shot. He was even perfect from beyond the arc, knocking down six shots from three-point territory.



However, that wasn’t the best part of the win. If you were to ask coach Mark Pope, he liked how things got a little physical, and there was a bit of a scuffle during the game.



<h2>Mark Pope loved the environment of the rivalry game </h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“It wouldn’t have been an appropriate game if it wasn’t a tension-filled mosh pit down in front of their bench,” Pope told On3. “That was probably the most fun part of the game, right?”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241216_BUS_293971_Mark-Pope-1024x576_927bec37.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope" class="wp-image-285800" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kentucky head coach Mark Pope watches his team play against Lipscomb on Tuesday night, Nov. 19, 2024, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky</figcaption></figure>



Things escalated when Kentucky’s Brandon Garrison and Louisville’s Reyne Smith dove for a loose ball near their bench. They started shoving, and it didn’t take long before the coaches had to intervene. Even so, Pope understands what the players were going through:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“You have two programs with an insane amount of passion for winning, feeling all the joy, intensity, and stress of this rivalry,” the Wildcats coach said after the game.</blockquote>


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The Wildcats shot a scorching-hot 58.2% from the floor and 52.4% from beyond the arc. Now, they will look to get the best of the Ohio State Buckeyes in a high-flying matchup on Saturday.

NCAAB News: Ecstatic Mark Pope reveals best part of Kentucky beating Louisville

NCAAB News: Ecstatic Mark Pope reveals best part of Kentucky beating Louisville - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kentucky" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kentucky </a>Wildcats got the last laugh in yet another edition of their rivalry with the Louisville Cardinals. Mark Pope’s team escaped with a 95-83 triumph, mostly thanks to Lamont Butler’s offensive explosion. 



The talented point guard exploded for a career-high 33 points, giving Mark Pope’s team a much-needed offensive boost in one of the most important games of the season.



He didn’t miss a single shot from the floor — not even from beyond the arc — to lead the nation’s No. 5 team to a win in the Battle of the Bluegrass. That’s why Cardinals coach Pat Kelsey had no choice but to tip his hat to him.



<h2>Pat Kelsey says he has nightmares with Lamont Butler</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Lamont Butler was magnificent,” Kelsey said. “I still see that kid in my nightmares because we played against him when I was the head coach of the College of Charleston and he was the point guard at San Diego State … he was just an absolute warrior. He’s a winner. He’s been out the last couple of games. People were talking about whether he’s going to play or not; I said, ‘That cat is playing. You can mark that one down.’ He is a stone-cold killer and a really good player.“</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241216_BUS_293699_Lamont-Butler-1-1024x576_a1a194ba.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-293701" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/16082431/Lamont-Butler-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/16082431/Lamont-Butler-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/16082431/Lamont-Butler-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/16082431/Lamont-Butler-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/16082431/Lamont-Butler-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/16082431/Lamont-Butler-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/16082431/Lamont-Butler-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/16082431/Lamont-Butler-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kentucky s Lamont Butler (1) celebrates after making a shot against Louisville on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, at Rupp Arena in Lexington</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Mark Pope reacts to Butler’s epic performance </h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“He’s been that way his whole career. He’s got better and better and better and we’re gonna see some of the some of the beauty,“ coach Mark Pope said of his talented point guard.</blockquote>


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Butler finished with 33 points, 6 assists, 3 rebounds, and 6 three-pointers on 10-of-10 from the floor and 6-of-6 from beyond the arc, becoming just the second SEC player to score 30+ without missing a shot in the past two decades.

NCAAB News: Lamont Butler's performance draws epic comment from Louisville coach

NCAAB News: Lamont Butler's performance draws epic comment from Louisville coach - Bolavip US

The Kentucky Wildcats didn’t need much help getting past Colgate on Wednesday. Now, sitting on a 9-1 record, they have a crucial rivalry matchup with state neighbors Louisville Cardinals.



Mark Pope’s side will have homecourt advantage for one of the biggest games of the season. Needless to say, we’re talking about two programs that have absolutely no sympathy for one another.



This will be Pope’s first time coaching in this rivalry, and while this might be new to him, he fully trusts his veteran players to be up to the task of taking the Cardinals down, so he didn’t feel the need to emphasize what’s at stake on Saturday,



<h2>Mark Pope gets honest on his first game vs. Louisville</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“The answer is probably no,” Pope said. “You probably have to experience it to do it (communicate). But, I am blessed with guys that are seasoned. I have guys that have played in big-time rivalry games so it’s not like a foreign concept to them. This is just a little level up.” </blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241212_BUS_291563_Mark-Pope-1024x576_68b75c82.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope" class="wp-image-285800" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kentucky head coach Mark Pope watches his team play against Lipscomb on Tuesday night, Nov. 19, 2024, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky</figcaption></figure>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“It’s exciting and awesome. We love it and we hate it and we all the things…I’m well-aware of the beauty of this rivalry,” he concluded.</blockquote>



<h2>Kentucky will have to turn to other players</h2>



The Wildcats are dealing with some injuries right now. Kerr Kriisa and Lamont Butler are out, and while Otega Oweh and Jaxson Robinson held their own, the coach acknowledged that he might need to turn to Travis Perry and Trent Noah more often:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“That’s gonna be a work in progress. They’re super talented players. I thought they made solid contributions tonight. It’s hard, you kind of want to put them in the game when there’s a real flow to it,” Pope said of his freshmen.</blockquote>


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Perry and Noah held their ground in their last outing, and given how shorthanded the Wildcats are right now, it wouldn’t be much of a surprise to see them log heavy minutes vs. the Cardinals.

NCAAB News: Mark Pope gets brutally honest on Kentucky-Louisville rivalry

NCAAB News: Mark Pope gets brutally honest on Kentucky-Louisville rivalry - Bolavip US

The Kentucky Wildcats need to keep their foot on the gas. They will meet Colgate and Louisville this week in the final stretch of their non-conference schedule. Needless to say, they cannot overlook any opponent at this point.



The Wildcats need to be at their best to take care of business. That’s why being healthy is such a major factor during such a long and complicated college basketball season.



With that in mind, the fans were wondering whether the Wildcats will be able to have Lamont Butler on the court, as he’s currently out with an injury. Fortunately, it seems like that will be the case.



<h2>Mark Pope gives positive injury update on Lamont Butler</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“It’s day-to-day right now, we’ll see. I’m hoping to see him on the court some tomorrow. We’ll see how that goes,” said Pope. “He got some work done today away from the team. He was at practice, kind of. His voice was there, but wasn’t doing anything active with us. We’re going to see how he responds tomorrow morning.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241210_BUS_289813_Mark-Pope1-1024x576_7a33957e.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope" class="wp-image-285801" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption> Kentucky basketball coach Mark Pope didn t produce an NBA draft pick during his nine combined seasons as the head coach at Utah Valley and BYU. (Ryan C. Hermens Lexington Herald-Leader TNS</figcaption></figure>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Saturday feels — we’re really feeling sooner rather than later,” added Pope. “It’s a matter of days. I would like those days to include a game on Wednesday. We’ll see how that goes.”</blockquote>


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Butler rolled his ankle at Clemson last Tuesday. With Kerr Kriisa also out with an injury, there were legitimate reasons to be concerned about Butler’s availability — or lack thereof.

NCAAB News: Mark Pope shares positive injury update on key Kentucky player

NCAAB News: Mark Pope shares positive injury update on key Kentucky player - Bolavip US

The Kentucky Wildcats are no longer undefeated. Clemson got the best of them on Tuesday, and with another ranked opponent in sight, coach Mark Pope knows his team won’t have a lot of time to bounce back.



The first-year coach talked about the upcoming matchup with the Gonzaga Bulldogs. While he trusts his team’s ability to get the job done, he knows how big a threat they pose.



That’s particularly true when talking about their star guard, Ryan Nembhard. The senior, who is Indiana Pacers’ star Andrew Nembhard’s younger brother, is one of the prime playmakers in the game.



<h2>Mark Pope is worried about Ryan Nembhard</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“They’re a dangerous, dangerous team,” Pope said. “I mean Nembhard is, he’s I don’t know, he’s a 10.3 to one right now. 10.3 assists a game. 10 to one assist-turnover ratio, that’s ridiculous, those numbers are crazy and so they’re really potent.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241207_BUS_288289_Mark-Pope-1024x576_ece3de76.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope" class="wp-image-285800" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kentucky head coach Mark Pope watches his team play against Lipscomb on Tuesday night, Nov. 19, 2024, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky</figcaption></figure>



Nembhard hasn’t been as explosive on offense as he’s been in previous seasons, but he’s become a much more consistent three-point shooter, knocking down 45% of his shots from beyond the arc.



On top of that, he’s leading all of college basketball with a whopping 10.8 assists per game, logging a 6.14 assist-to-turnover ratio and averaging 1.9 steals per game as well.



<h2>Kentucky cannot overlook Gonzaga</h2>



The Wildcats are once again expected to be one of the marquee teams in college basketball, but Mark Few’s Gonzaga is fresh off a 90-65 route of the Davidson Wildcats.


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Even so, Kentucky can afford to go all-in in their next matchup, as they have Colgate on deck after this game. Gonzaga, on the other hand, can be caught looking ahead, as they will meet UConn next.

NCAAB News: Kentucky's Mark Pope reveals Gonzaga's secret weapon

NCAAB News: Kentucky's Mark Pope reveals Gonzaga's secret weapon - Bolavip US

The Kentucky Wildcats are undefeated no more. The team some consider to be the best in the nation couldn’t handle the Clemson Tigers, taking their record to 7-1.



Mark Pope’s team led by more than 15 minutes, yet they couldn’t hold onto get the win. Clemson escaped with a 70-66 decision, leaving a bittersweet taste in their mouths.



The Wildcats won the battle on the interior, slightly outscoring their opponents in the restricted area. Nevertheless, Clemson’s grit and grind were too much to handle for Kentucky, according to coach Pope.



<h2>Clemson’s physicality made a difference</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“It was a really physical game. It’s a credit to them,” Pope said after the loss. “It’s how they play. Their bigs are relentless with their physicality toward working it into the post.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241204_BUS_285846_Mark-Pope1-1024x576_10a443d4.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope" class="wp-image-285801" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption> Kentucky basketball coach Mark Pope didn t produce an NBA draft pick during his nine combined seasons as the head coach at Utah Valley and BYU. (Ryan C. Hermens Lexington Herald-Leader TNS</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Turnovers hurt the Wildcats, says Pope</h2>



It was an uncharacteristically sloppy outing for Kentucky overall. They handed out eleven assists and had twelve turnovers, and you’re not going to win many games with that formula:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“We tried to — out of the goodness of our hearts and the care for our team — fix a lot of things by ourselves. It’s just not how we play. We’re not a minus assist-to-turnover ratio team,“ said Pope. “That’s not who we are, and all the credit goes to Clemson for creating that environment.”</blockquote>


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The Wildcats won’t have much time to get back on their feet, as they have an even tougher matchup on deck. They will battle No. 8 Gonzaga in a neutral site on Saturday night, and they will need to clean their act up for that high-flying contest.

NCAAB News: Frustrated Mark Pope knows why Kentucky lost to Clemson

NCAAB News: Frustrated Mark Pope knows why Kentucky lost to Clemson - Bolavip US

March Madness 2024 is on! The first round of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/college-basketball">2024 NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament</a>‘s South regional conference will feature a captivating matchup as Oakland take on <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kentucky">Kentucky</a> today. Fans looking forward to this intense battle can find all the essential details, including the date, kickoff time, and various viewing options available in the United States, to ensure they don’t miss any of the action.



<a href="https://www.fubo.tv/welcome/leagues/191260?irad=367782&amp;irmp=3119684" rel="sponsored nofollow">[Watch Oakland vs Kentucky for FREE in the US on Fubo]</a>



This game is set to be thrilling as we enter the most exciting phase of the 2024 NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament. From this point forward, fans can anticipate the most intense matchups, making it an ideal time to follow college basketball closely.



Kentucky, one of the tournament’s favorites and the third-place finisher in the South regional, is poised to advance to the final stages. They will face Oakland, the underdogs of this match, who finished in 14th place. Despite their lower ranking, Oakland are a team that demands respect and should not be underestimated.



<h2>When will the Oakland vs Kentucky game be played?</h2>



The first round game of the 2024 NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament between Oakland and Kentucky will be played this Saturday, March 23 at 7:10 PM (ET).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240320_BUS_113044_Blake-Lampman-1024x576_dcb5cc36.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-113054" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Blake-Lampman-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Blake-Lampman-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Blake-Lampman-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Blake-Lampman-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Blake-Lampman.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Blake Lampman of Oakland – IMAGO / ZUMA Wire</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Oakland vs Kentucky: Time by State in the US</h2>



ET: 7:10 PM CT: 6:10 PM MT: 5:10 PM PT: 4:10 PM


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<h2>Where to watch Oakland vs Kentucky</h2>



This first round game of the 2024 NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament between Oakland and Kentucky will be broadcast in the United States on <a href="https://www.fubo.tv/welcome/leagues/191260?irad=367782&amp;irmp=3119684" rel="sponsored nofollow">Fubo (free trial)</a>. Other options: CBS.

How to watch Oakland vs Kentucky for FREE in the US in 2024 NCAA Tournament First Round

How to watch Oakland vs Kentucky for FREE in the US in 2024 NCAA Tournament First Round - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/clemson">Clemson Tigers</a> will face the Kentucky Wildcats in the 2023 Gator Bowl. The game will be played today, December 29 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida.



<a href="https://www.fubo.tv/welcome/leagues/191261?irad=399332&amp;irmp=3119684" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">[Watch Clemson vs Kentucky online in the US for FREE on Fubo]</a>



Clemson were one of the biggest disappointments in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/college-football">college football</a> with an 8-4 record. However, there were some flashes which hint that this program might be very dangerous in the future. For example, the Tigers almost knocked out <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/florida-state">Florida State</a> in a 31-24 overtime thriller and finished the season with four consecutive victories.


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Meanwhile, Kentucky had a 7-5 record. After starting the season 5-0, the big problem for the Wildcats came when they faced powerhouses such as Georgia, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/alabama">Alabama</a> and Tennessee. Nevertheless, they ended their season with a marquee 38-31 win against Louisville.







<h2>When will Clemson vs Kentucky be played?</h2>



The 2023 edition of the Gator Bowl between Clemson and Kentucky will be played on Friday, December 29 at 12 PM (ET). The Tigers are 4-point favorites, but the Wildcats lead the series (8-5). 



<h2>Clemson vs Kentucky: Time by State in the US</h2>



ET: 12 PM CT: 11 AM MT: 10 AM PT: 9 AM



<h2>How to watch Clemson vs Kentucky in the US</h2>



Clemson and Kentucky meet in the 2023 Gator Bowl and the game will be available in the US on <a href="https://www.fubo.tv/welcome/leagues/191261?irad=399332&amp;irmp=3119684" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">Fubo (7-day free trial)</a>. Other options to watch this long awaited matchup in the United States are ESPN and ESPN+.


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How to watch Clemson vs Kentucky for FREE in the US today: TV Channel and Live Streaming for 2023 Gator Bowl

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How to watch Clemson vs Kentucky for FREE in the US today: TV Channel and Live Streaming for 2023 Gator Bowl - Bolavip US

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