A new chapter opened at Rupp Arena tonight as the Kentucky Wildcats, under head coach Mark Pope, took the floor with a brand new roster. The air in Rupp was electric from the first tip, with fans on the edge of their seats, ready to roar at any 3-point shot. The Cats, at times, were out of sync, but for the most part, they did not disappoint, delivering a fast-paced, hard-fought game and an easy win.
From the opening moments, it was clear that Pope's Wildcats were looking to play a more dynamic style, not only pushing the pace but also running sets to get guys shots. The Cats began to cook offensively in the second half.
Steal ➡️ Slam, @OtegaOweh 😤🤌 pic.twitter.com/qtw4I92GpB
— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) November 5, 2024
Tonight’s performance hinted at an exciting season ahead for Kentucky fans, who got a glimpse of what’s possible with this team. When Rupp Arena is at its full-throttle best, few places can match it, even in pro sports. I believe there will be plenty of that this year, as this team runs non-stop.
There’s no doubt this season opener was more than just a game; it was a statement of intent to show the fans what they can expect going forward. Here’s to the beginning of what could be a memorable first season under Mark Pope.
3 Stars of the night
1. Otega Oweh

Otega got it started early with a fast dunk that had the crowd up; he never slowed down after that. Oweh finished the game with 21 points (8-9 shooting, 3-3 behind the arc), 3 rebounds, 3 steals, 1 assist, and 1 block in a great all-around performance.
Contested 3️⃣ is no problem for @OtegaOweh 🔥
— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) November 5, 2024
📺 - ESPNU pic.twitter.com/cOCYQNIyJX
2. Amari Williams

Amari Williams nearly had a first-half double-double, with 8 points and 9 rebounds. No worries, he got it in the second half. Playing with great energy all night and some silky smooth passing, Williams finished with 12 points, 13 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block, and 1 steal.
Take off @amxriwillixms 🚀
— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) November 5, 2024
📺 - ESPNU pic.twitter.com/EoswX63WnO
3. Koby Brea

The sharp-shooting transfer did not disappoint in his debut for the Cats. Brea came in off the bench but finished the game with 18 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists on 7-8 shooting and a perfect 4-4 from downtown.
KOBY BREA 🫣🔥🔥🔥
— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) November 5, 2024
📺 - ESPNU pic.twitter.com/vqXG9NQwSi
Kentucky is back in action Saturday evening at 4 PM EST as Bucknell comes calling at Rupp Arena.