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Kentucky basketball: 5 Rushed reactions vs Mississippi

By Matt Upchurch

LEXINGTON, KY - FEBRUARY 28: Kentucky Wildcats cheerleaders perform during the game against the Ole Miss Rebels at Rupp Arena on February 28, 2018 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
LEXINGTON, KY - FEBRUARY 28: Kentucky Wildcats cheerleaders perform during the game against the Ole Miss Rebels at Rupp Arena on February 28, 2018 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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LEXINGTON, KY – DECEMBER 02: John Calipari, head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats, talks to Wenyen Gabriel
LEXINGTON, KY – DECEMBER 02: John Calipari, head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats, talks to Wenyen Gabriel /

3. Wenyen’s technical foul

The Kentucky basketball team is on a 4-game win streak because, in part, they have been playing smarter basketball. The easy aspect of the game to point to is that the Cats are forcing less shots. They are playing more united, more as a team, and more patient. Their defense has been outstanding, for the most part, and rebounding has been solid. Even more remarkable is the fact that this young team has done a good job making more “winning plays” than “losing plays”.

Unfortunately, Wenyen Gabriel made a “losing play” tonight. In a highlight reel play, an Ole Miss player dunked hard on Gabriel. No big deal, that happens from time to time. But while trying to get the ball bouncing away, Wenyen pushed the opposing Ole Miss player, shoving him to the ground. Gabriel was immediately called for a technical foul. Kentucky ultimately wins the game easily, but this was certainly a “losing play”.

Ole Miss scored the 2 points from the dunk, then got 2 free-throws from the technical, and then an additional possession. Kentucky’s lead disappeared in a hurry, and Ole Miss had all the momentum. A similar play in the SEC Tournament or in the NCAA Tournament can result in the Cats being sent him after a loss.

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