John Calipari comments on signature win over No. 8 Miami by UK basketball

Kentucky basketball blew out No. 8-ranked Miami 95-73, led by Reed Sheppard and Rob Dillingham. Wildcats dominated with fastbreak points.

Kentucky basketball secured an extraordinary early-season victory on Tuesday evening, defeating the No. 8-ranked Miami (Fla.) team 95-73 in a remarkable blowout at Rupp Arena, as part of the inaugural ACC/SEC Challenge. This impressive win was led by Reed Sheppard, the in-state freshman phenom, who scored 21 points and was one of five Kentucky players to reach double digits. Additionally, Rob Dillingham contributed 12 points and a career-best nine assists, emerging as a key asset for the Wildcats off the bench.

The Wildcats effectively contained Miami, the statistically best 3-point shooting team in the nation, holding them to a mere 26.3% from beyond the arc. Furthermore, Kentucky's high-tempo offense generated 23 fastbreak points, helping them to turn a five-point halftime lead into a decisive victory. According to ESPN, this 22-point win marked the second-largest victory over an AP top-10 team since John Calipari became the head coach in 2009, with the biggest win being a 32-point victory over Kansas in 2014.

Notably, Kentucky achieved this significant victory primarily without the services of D.J. Wagner, who sustained an injury during the game. Despite this setback, Coach Calipari praised the team's performance, emphasizing their disciplined play and ability to execute the game plan effectively. He also highlighted Reed Sheppard's exceptional impact on the game, commending his passing abilities and work ethic, likening him to some of the best players he has coached.

Calipari also addressed the team's high assist-to-turnover ratio, attributing it to the players' dribbling, passing, and shooting capabilities. He expressed confidence in the team's ability to continue limiting turnovers while posting high assist totals, emphasizing the importance of having players who are good with the ball and confident 3-point shooters. Additionally, he discussed the team's playing style and the potential return of key players, expressing excitement for the future of the team.

In conclusion, Kentucky's victory over Miami was a testament to their exceptional performance and strategic execution, showcasing their potential for continued success. This remarkable win has garnered widespread attention and praise, solidifying the Wildcats as a formidable force in college basketball.