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Know your enemy: What you need to know as the Cats head to Oxford

Kentucky is heading to Oxford to try to avoid a 4th loss in 5 games. What you need to know about Ole Miss.
ByDrew Holbrook|
Dec 3, 2024; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Mississippi Rebels head coach Chris Beard talks with guard Sean Pedulla (3) during the second half against the Louisville Cardinals at KFC Yum! Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images
Dec 3, 2024; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Mississippi Rebels head coach Chris Beard talks with guard Sean Pedulla (3) during the second half against the Louisville Cardinals at KFC Yum! Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images | Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images

The Kentucky Wildcats are preparing to take on the Ole Miss Rebels in an SEC matchup that presents an intriguing challenge. While Kentucky boasts one of the nation's top offenses, Ole Miss brings a balanced attack with strengths in ball security and defensive disruption. Here’s what you need to know about the Rebels. Get to know your enemy as the Cats head to Oxford:

Strengths and Weaknesses of Ole Miss

Ole Miss plays an efficient style, averaging 77.7 points per game (70th nationally). Their offensive execution is highlighted by an impressive assist-to-turnover ratio of 1.652 (#8 in the country), meaning they take care of the ball extremely well. Their 9.3 turnovers per game rank #4 nationally, making them one of the most disciplined teams in the country.

On defense, the Rebels allow 67.7 points per game (#60), showing they can hold their own on that end as well. They particularly excel at forcing turnovers, ranking #14 in opponent turnovers per game (15.7) and #7 in steals per game (9.8). Their ability to create extra possessions makes them a tough matchup for a Kentucky team that has 14 turnovers or more in 3 of 4 games and no point guard.

However, rebounding is a major weakness for the Rebels. They grab only 34.0 rebounds per game (#230) and allow 37.7 rebounds per game (#311). This could pose a problem against a Kentucky team that ranks #9 in the nation in total rebounding (40.3 per game).

Kentucky basketball vs. Ole Miss: Key Comparisons

Kentucky holds a clear edge in scoring, putting up 87.2 points per game (#3 nationally) compared to Ole Miss’ 77.7 ppg (#70). The Wildcats’ effective field goal percentage (56.5%, #18) is also superior to the Rebels’ 51.8% (#125), making them a more efficient offensive team.

However, the Rebels may have an edge in perimeter defense, holding opponents to just 30.8% from three (#49) which is where Kentucky wants to do most of it's damage.

Players to Watch

For Ole Miss:

  • Matthew Murrell (G, 11.2 PPG, 2.1 APG, 2.1 SPG) – A disruptive defender and one of the team’s top scorers.
  • Jaemyn Brakefield (F, 10.8 PPG, 5.0 RPG) – A steady inside presence who can contribute on both ends but struggles with his left hand.
  • Sean Pedulla (G, 15.2 PPG, 3.6 APG, 2.3 SPG) – The leading scorer and playmaker, capable of taking over games.

For Kentucky:

  • Otega Oweh (G, 15.6 PPG, 4.5 RPG) – A dynamic scorer who can also contribute on the boards.
  • Amari Williams (C, 10.3 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 1.4 BPG) – A strong presence in the paint who can exploit Ole Miss’ rebounding struggles.

Stat to Watch

Kentucky’s ability to control the boards will be a decisive factor. The Wildcats rank #9 in rebounding (40.3 RPG) while Ole Miss struggles at #230 (34.0 RPG). If Kentucky dominates the glass, it could neutralize the Rebels’ defensive strengths and any Kentucky turnovers.

This SEC battle will come down to whether Ole Miss can slow Kentucky’s offense and force enough turnovers to offset their rebounding woes. Expect a high-paced and competitive game with both teams looking to make a statement as both need victories.

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