The Mark Pope era has officially taken off, hosting the annual Big Blue Madness nearly two weeks ago including the Blue-White scrimmage just last Friday. Tonight they were back in Rupp Arena to officially kick-off the 2024-25 schedule, hosting in-state Kentucky Wesleyan for their first exhibition.

After 40 quick minutes, the home team would win by 71 points, 123-52. They were led by Jaxson Robinson’s 19 points, shortly ahead of Otega Oweh’s 18 points. Eight total players reached double figures, with three reaching the 15-point mark.

Here are the final stats in the unofficial win.

Kentucky would finish the exhibition shooting 63.2% from the field and 50% (21-42) from behind the three-point line. Ridiculous.

Limiting the Panthers to just 24 first half points and 52 for the game, this new team quickly showed that offense isn’t all that they have in the tank. Lamont Butler — Kentucky’s point guard — led the team with 2 blocks and 6 steals.

After finally getting to see this team against different jerseys, it sure was different I must say. Different in a good way, though. This team is so spread out and quick on both sides of the floor, so any fan that enjoys points (a lot of them) will take a liking to this team. I think they are going to be very easy to watch going forward.

Their next exhibition will take place on Tuesday, October 29th, against Minnesota State Mankato at 7:00 PM.

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