Rupp Arena was electric Friday night — and not just because Kentucky blew out Valparaiso 107-59. What really had everyone talking was what happened after the final buzzer, when Mark Pope’s Wildcats made it clear they’re building something special in Lexington.
Following a wire-to-wire domination, the team huddled midcourt, arms linked, smiling from ear to ear as the crowd roared in approval. Players didn’t rush to the locker room — they stayed to soak in the moment, hyping up the Big Blue faithful who had just witnessed a statement win. Even Mark Pope, usually measured after victories, couldn’t hide his grin.
“This group is different,” Pope told reporters postgame. “They play for each other, and that’s what makes this so much fun to watch.”
And it’s hard to argue with him. The No. 9 Wildcats looked every bit like a national contender Friday night, racing to a 58-point first half and never looking back. Six players finished in double figures, including freshman center Malachi Moreno, who notched his first career double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds.
Sophomore Collin Chandler once again lit it up from deep, draining four three-pointers and finishing with 14 points, while freshman guard Jasper Johnson added nine — all from beyond the arc.
The biggest moment, though, might’ve been Jaland Lowe’s debut. The junior transfer finally suited up and made an immediate impact off the bench, dishing out five assists and scoring six points in just 18 minutes. His smooth playmaking drew a standing ovation from the Rupp crowd — and Pope made sure to give him his flowers afterward.
“Jaland brings a calmness to our offense,” Pope said. “You can see how the ball moves when he’s out there.”
The celebration that followed told the full story. Players waved to fans, hugged teammates, and even pulled Pope into the student section’s chants. It felt like more than just a November win — it felt like the start of something real.
Now sitting at 2-0, Kentucky turns its attention to a massive early-season showdown at Louisville on Tuesday night. The No. 11 Cardinals are also unbeaten, setting up what could be one of the most intense rivalry games in years.
If what we saw in Rupp Arena is any sign, Mark Pope’s Cats are playing with purpose, passion, and unity — and the rest of college basketball better start paying attention.
Big Blue Nation can feel it: something special is brewing.
