The Starting Lineup Comparison That’s Shaking Up the Offseason
The Kentucky vs. Indiana summer clash has fans talking — and not just talking… debating, arguing, and panicking (if you’re from Indiana). Why? Because when you compare the starting lineups side-by-side, it’s obvious:
One of these teams looks like they’re ready for March.
The other might be in for a rough ride.
Let’s break it down.
Kentucky’s Starting Five: Deep, Disciplined, and Dangerous
1. Jeremiah Lowe
Calm, composed, and way ahead of schedule. The young floor general is making a name for himself this summer. He doesn’t need to score 20 — he just runs the show, makes the right reads, and locks up opposing guards.
2. Denzel Aberdeen
A versatile returning piece who’s thriving under Mark Pope. Aberdeen brings defensive pressure, leadership, and a much-improved offensive game.
3. Otega Oweh
The alpha wing of the lineup. Oweh plays with a chip on his shoulder, attacks the rim with power, and defends like his scholarship depends on it. He’s looked like Kentucky’s most explosive player all summer.
4. Mouhamed Dioubate
All hustle, all energy, all the time. Dioubate is Pope’s ultimate competitor — diving for loose balls, dominating the glass, and bringing that Dawg mentality.
5. Brandon Garrison
6’11” with skill, feel, and toughness. Garrison is Kentucky’s anchor inside — blocking shots, cleaning the glass, and showing flashes of elite post footwork.
This lineup has chemistry, toughness, and length — the kind of squad that’s built to make deep runs.
Indiana’s Starting Five: Flashy Names, But Big Question Marks
1. Conerway
Quick and aggressive, but undersized. He’ll have his hands full trying to get past Lowe’s perimeter defense.
2. Wilkerson
High-volume scorer who needs rhythm. Kentucky’s physical guards might take him completely out of it.
3. DeVries
Indiana’s most polished offensive player, but can he carry the load? Oweh’s defense could turn this into a long night.
4. Bailey
A raw, athletic forward. Bailey has potential, but facing Dioubate’s intensity could overwhelm him.
5. Sisley
A stretch big who can shoot, but will struggle to handle Garrison’s interior presence.
Indiana’s talent is real — but right now, they look like individuals. Kentucky looks like a team.
Must-Watch Matchup:
Oweh vs. DeVries — Two future pros. One-on-one battles. Expect fireworks.
Coaching Shift:
Mark Pope’s system is already making an impact. The ball moves faster. The defense is tighter. The energy is different. Kentucky’s culture is already clicking — and it shows in the lineup.
