The wait is nearly over, Kentucky basketball fans will get their first extended look at Mark Pope’s new-look roster tonight when the Wildcats take the floor for the annual Blue-White Scrimmage.
How to watch the action
- Date: Friday, October 17
- Time: 7 p.m. ET
- Location: Memorial Coliseum
- Broadcast: SEC Network+ / ESPN+
Tickets are still available over at Ticketmaster beginning at $20 a ticket. Mark Pope has already teased a few surprises, both in lineups and presentation, but the core of the night will focus on evaluating his roster under live conditions inside the historic Memorial Coliseum. Expect a true scrimmage format with situational segments rather than just a running clock.
Point guard rotation takes center stage
All eyes will be on the point guard spot. Jaland Lowe has drawn rave reviews for his steadiness throughout the preseason. How does he command the offense when the lights are brightest? This will be his first major test in front of Big Blue Nation, showcasing his fit in Pope's system that values poise and efficiency.
The frontcourt proving ground
Another key area to watch is the frontcourt battle. Freshmen Malachi Moreno and returning big man Brandon Garrison have reportedly gone head-to-head daily in practice, a theme Pope says has accelerated both players’ development. How do they perform against each other in a live setting? Their physicality and skill will be on full display.
How do the returners look?
This scrimmage also offers the first real glimpse of the returning players within Pope's system. How have Collin Chandler, Trent Noah, Brandon Garrison, and Otega Oweh adapted? Their comfort level and leadership will be crucial indicators of the team's early chemistry and understanding of the new offensive and defensive schemes.
It’s the first live test of Pope’s “brotherhood” era where competition meets chemistry and roles start to take shape. Expect fireworks, fun, and a packed Memorial Coliseum eager to see what’s next.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time he enjoys downtime with his family and Premier League soccer. You can find him on X here. Micah 7:7. #UptheAlbion