Kentucky handles Kentucky State 83-51
By Peggy Gilligan
The Cats closed out the exhibition portion of the schedule with a dominate win over Kentucky State University tonight in Rupp Arena. The evening began with a presentation honoring the black community know as Adamstown and commemorating 50 years of black studies at UK. The players did their part by wearing shooting shirts with “Adamstown” on the front.
Nick Richards only appearance tonight was in a walking boot after twisting an ankle in the game last Sunday against Georgetown. Nate Sestina stepped into a starting role in Richards absence.
Kentucky never trailed in this game starting with a fast break lay-up from Kahlil Whitney. The team took better care of the ball tonight totaling only 13 turnovers for the entire game.
Nate Sestina seems to be adjusting well. In his second game with the Cats he had 13 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 blocks. Immanuel Quickley and Kahlil Whitney both scored 15 points. Ashton Hagans again put forth a great defensive effort.
Joel Justus noted in the post game press conference that Quickly was playing with more confidence and together with Hagans the backcourt defense was improving. He also noted that Sestina’s energy was infectious to the entire team.
In the end Kentucky State put forth a valiant effort although over matched by both the Kentucky offense and defense. The game ended with a final score of Kentucky 83 Kentucky State 51.
Tuesday the Cats start the regular season in New York City at Madison Square Garden against the pre-season No. 1 Michigan State Spartans in the Champions Classic.