Kentucky fans, get ready for an intriguing matchup as the Wildcats prepare to take on the Bucknell Bison (2-0), a team stacked with experience and a tough defensive core. Head Coach Mark Pope has spoken highly of Bucknell’s roster and experience, noting, "Good team, veteran team. Three seniors and two juniors. But more importantly, guys that have been together for a long time.” With three seniors and two juniors who have developed together over the years, College experience often matters a lot in these early season games, where young teams are trying to find their identity. That will not be the case this Saturday.
Areas to watch
1. Bucknell offensive spacing
Noah Williamson has scored ALL of @Bucknell_MBB's pts thus far 🤯 pic.twitter.com/SOnFaDi8C8
— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) March 10, 2024
Bucknell’s ability to shoot from beyond the arc makes them a high-stakes threat. Notice how all 5 guys are beyond the three-point line in the video above. They will spread the Kentucky defense and attempt to drive and kick. Being able to stay in front of the drive will be key. The Bison have shown they can get hot from three, shooting 10 of 19 in their first game, though they cooled to 4 of 17 in their second matchup against Southern Indiana. Kentucky’s perimeter defense will need to be at its sharpest to prevent Bucknell from finding their rhythm. If the Wildcats can disrupt their shooters, they’ll have a good shot at keeping Bucknell under control.
2. Containing Noah Williamson
Bucknell’s leading scorer, 7-foot center Noah Williamson, has been nearly unstoppable so far. Averaging 25 points per game, including a 32-point performance in overtime against Southern Indiana, Williamson poses a significant threat. Not only can he score efficiently, but he also stretches the defense with his shooting ability. As Coach Pope said, “A big who holds down the middle really, really well. Can shoot it.” Kentucky’s frontcourt must be ready to keep Williamson from getting hot, something that has happened all too often in Rupp Arena over the years.
3. Exploiting Bucknell’s Turnover Vulnerabilities
Despite their experience, Bucknell has shown a tendency to turn the ball over, averaging 16 turnovers per game in their first two matchups. Kentucky’s defense, especially in forcing turnovers, could take advantage here. Pressure on Bucknell’s backcourt, led by guards Josh Bascoe and Elvin Edmonds IV, could disrupt the Bison. Edmonds, while averaging a respectable 10 points and 6 rebounds per game, has struggled with turnovers, committing 11 in just two games. Kentucky’s defense, who had 11 steals in the opening night win, will need to capitalize on these opportunities to create fast-break points.
4. Keeping the Bison off the free throw line
Bucknell has been impressive at drawing fouls, with a remarkable 61 free throw attempts over their first two games of the young season. Kentucky must play disciplined defense and avoid frequently sending Bucknell to the line. The Wildcats will need to stay aggressive without falling into foul trouble,
This matchup against Bucknell is shaping up to be a solid test for Kentucky as they go up against a well-rounded and experienced team. Keep an eye on Kentucky’s ability to contest the three, force turnovers, and push the tempo to keep Bucknell from setting up their offense.
Prediction
Kentucky 90
Bucknell 65
MVP
Jaxson Robinson
Kentucky is back in action this Saturday at 4 pm, you can watch the Bucknell Bison take on the Wildcats live from Rupp by clicking here