The Kentucky–Louisville rivalry hasn’t felt this alive in years, and a lot of that juice is coming from the sideline. When Pat Kelsey met with the media this week, he delivered exactly what this rivalry has been missing: confidence, personality, and respect layered with competitive fire.
Kelsey didn’t pretend this is just another game. But what stood out most was his admiration for Kentucky’s analytic profile and his history with Jaland Lowe.
Kelsey on Jaland Lowe: A problem he already knows
One of the most interesting parts of the press availability came when Kelsey detailed his previous meetings with Lowe when Pitt and Charleston matched up.
The numbers really aren't great, but he was on a Pitt team that he had to do it all. Keep that in mind when looking at it.
- Lowe went 11-for-33 combined in the two matchups
- 2-for-13 from deep
- Eight turnovers, 11 assists
Kelsey praised Lowe’s improvement while noting that Kentucky’s spacing helps him far more than Pitt’s offense did.
Calling him “terrific,” “explosive,” and “a problem,” Kelsey made it clear that the game may hinge on Kentucky’s point guard. He also made a point to highlight Kentucky’s No. 1 KenPom ranking, calling the Wildcats “the most balanced team we’ve played.” Since they have only played 2 other teams and those were tune-up games, that is almost going to be a certain. But it is nice to see him respecting a team in Kentucky that is still learning who they are.
Kelsey’s tone never dipped into theatrics, but it carried the intensity of someone who knows exactly what this opportunity represents. He wants this one. So does Pope. And their players feel that energy.
Saturday night in Louisville restores the rivalry to its rightful place, national relevance, emotional investment, and actual basketball quality worthy of prime placement on the calendar. So can we get it out of November and back to December next year, please?
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