The Wildcats failed to cover the spread in their 86 to 73 win that was frustrating to watch for 2/3rds of the game. Out of the gate Wall, Cousins and Paterson got into foul trouble which allowed Long Beach to hold on to their confidence. Liggins played the most he’s played all year (which isn’t saying much) as the bench played for most of the first half.
It seemed everyone was already enjoying Christmas dinner and opening presents when the game started. There was definitely a lack of focus on the game, and you could see it. Cousins received a technical foul early after lunging at a long beach player when he was shoved. DeMarcus had a roller coaster of a game where his emotions moved him to make great plays, and some bone headed ones as well. That’s something I’m sure Coach is going to address over the next few weeks..
With three minutes left to play, the real Kentucky Wildcats showed up. It was obvious they had grown tired of letting Long Beach hang close. With a few fast breaks and a three by Darius Miller, it was obvious that Long Beach had missed their chance for an upset.
The Cats play Hartford on Tuesday and the Music City Bowl on Sunday….It has the makings of a great weekend! Don’t be stingy, and remember we all got our Christmas gift early (Coach Cal). Under different leadership, we would probably end up repeating the Gardner Webb incident.
Merry Christmas!
