Wildcats' epic fail: Inside the nightmare shooting numbers for the Cats

Kentucky's offense was a disaster against Ohio State, and the defense wasn't any better. The Wildcats shot just 29% from the field in a game that showcased their glaring inability to create and convert quality shots. With only 17 made field goals across 40 minutes, Kentucky’s performance from the floor left fans frustrated and searching for answers. The only saving grace? A remarkable 27-for-32 night from the free-throw line. Without those trips to the stripe, the Wildcats might have faced a historically embarrassing outcome.

Even more troubling, Kentucky’s inefficiency wasn’t limited to one or two players—it was a team-wide issue. Outside of Brandon Garrison, who only attempted two shots and hit one, no other Wildcat shot above 33% from the floor. Starters Andrew Carr, Otega Oweh, and Jaxson Robinson combined for just 10 of 33 shooting, while the bench offered little relief. Kentucky’s 3-point shooting was equally grim, as the team hit only 4-of-22 attempts (18.2%).

Inside the arc, things weren’t much better. Kentucky struggled to finish in the paint, with missed layups and turnovers derailing their chances to build any real momentum. Time and again, they forced tough looks instead of creating open opportunities. Ohio State capitalized on these errors, using their superior shot-making to dominate the game.

The disparity in offensive effectiveness was glaring. Ohio State made 30-of-53 shots (56.6%), nearly doubling Kentucky’s field goal total. Points in the paint were a decisive factor, with the Buckeyes outscoring the Wildcats 36-24.

While free throws kept Kentucky somewhat competitive, the game underscored a troubling trend for the Wildcats: this team simply is not as good offensively in big games over 40 minutes. That simply has to change if this team is going to make any noise in the SEC.