The No. 9 Kentucky Wildcats won an exciting exhibition game against the No. 1 Purdue Boilermakers, 78–65, on Friday at Rupp Arena. Even though it was a preseason game, Kentucky showed strong teamwork and skill, giving fans hope for the new season.
Freshman guard Jasper Johnson led the Wildcats with 15 points, playing very well and showing confidence. Veterans Otega Oweh and Trent Noah added 10 points each, while Denzel Aberdeen, the starting point guard, scored nine points and had three rebounds and three assists. Almost every Kentucky player scored in the game, except Braydon Hawthorne, who only played a few seconds.
Kentucky’s defense was very strong. The team kept Purdue to 38.6% shooting and made it hard for them to score from three-point range, as Purdue only made 3 of 17 shots. Kentucky also won the rebounding battle, with 42 rebounds compared to Purdue’s 30, and scored more on fast breaks and second-chance points.
The game started with Purdue taking the lead, but Kentucky quickly caught up. Aberdeen made a three-point shot to tie the game, and the Wildcats then took control. They led 38–30 at halftime and kept their advantage in the second half.
This win is Kentucky’s 34th straight victory in exhibition games, showing the team is consistent and ready for the regular season.
Next, Kentucky will play another exhibition game against Georgetown on Thursday, October 30, at Rupp Arena. Fans will be watching closely to see if the Wildcats can keep their strong start going.
