The Blue-White Game is always more show than substance, a preseason tradition offering Big Blue Nation its first glimpse of the Kentucky basketball squads. This year’s event in Memorial Coliseum, however, left some distinct impressions, one team looking sharp and connected, the other looking very much like a work in progress, compounded by a significant injury.
Women's team shines with precision
The women took the floor first, running through crisp drills before scrimmaging the men’s intramural scout team. Kenny Brooks’ group secured a 43–32 win, led by expected stars Tonie Morgan and Clara Strack. More impressive than the score was the execution. The Wildcats communicated effectively, moved with purpose, and seamlessly transitioned practice principles into live action. They looked cohesive and ready. It was a very impressive showing and one that left me excited for the season as they look to build on a NCAA tournament win last season.
Men's team leaves dans wanting more
The men’s portion felt different. Mark Pope kept his team on a short leash, playing only one 10-minute scrimmage segment and moving to an Elam ending despite initially saying there would be 2 10 minute quarters and maybe a third if the guys weren't too tired. Neither the Blue nor White team looked particularly sharp. Shooting was inconsistent, the offensive rhythm was clunky, and good looks were hard to come by. The shot making was pretty bad honestly with several air balls.
There were flashes: Andrija Jelavic and Trent Noah hit some threes, and Malachi Moreno arguably outplayed Brandon Garrison, showcasing encouraging frontcourt depth. However, the overall flow was disjointed. The fact that nearly every shot was contested raises a question: Is the defense elite, or does the offense struggle to create separation?
They also didn't communicate loudly at all. You could hear the women in the arena, the men though were almost inaudible from just 4 rows back in a quiet gym. Imagine it being a loud gym and that is a real issue.
The shadow of injury looms
The biggest takeaway, unfortunately, was the shoulder injury to point guard Jaland Lowe, who had looked like the most poised player on the floor until he went down. The energy in the building dipped significantly after his exit, and the scrimmage never fully recovered its intensity.
While it's dangerous to read too much into a single scrimmage, the contrast was clear. The women's team appears connected and prepared. The men's team, facing offensive questions even before Lowe's injury, now has an even steeper climb ahead. Next week's exhibition against Purdue suddenly feels much more significant.
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