Kentucky and UCLA, two of college basketball’s most storied programs battle on the hardwood in Chicago today. Kentucky (11-0) comes into the game as a 15 point favorite.
UCLA (8-3) is averaging 80.8 points per game and Kentucky’s defense only allows 48 points per game on the season. Kentucky will probably let UCLA score a few more than 48 points, but not very many more because of their defense.
Kentucky needs to control the boards and keep the Bruins off the glass. UCLA out rebounds their opponents by nearly seven rebounds a game. On the plus side, Kentucky out rebounds their opponents by 11 boards a game.
Kentucky’s depth will hurt UCLA. The Bruins only play 6 or 7 players, so UK will be able to wear them down early.
Tyler Ulis returns home to play, and I expect him to have a big game. Willie Cauley-Stein will continue to be his dominate self, and the Harrison twins will have strong games. Devin Booker and Kentucky needs to shoot like they did against UNC from behind the arc. UK shot 46% from three point range against the Tar Heels.
I would like to see Marcus Lee get some quality minutes today, Lee is averaging just over 13 minutes a game. I think Marcus can give Kentucky some of those athletic plays and dunks that Alex Poythress made before his injury. Lee is one of the most athletic players on the team. The reason Lee doesn’t play more is because of his free throw shooting. He is 1-9 on the season.
PREDICTION
Prediction: UCLA vs. Kentucky UCLA 55 Kentucky 78
— Chad Pugh (@ChadPugh_NOB) December 20, 2014
