After a 40-point setback against Michigan, Gonzaga heads to Nashville Friday looking to rebound and respond against the Kentucky Wildcats.
Last season’s matchup still stings. The Zags arrived at Climate Pledge Arena buzzing from a season-opening win over Baylor, built an 18-point lead, and seemed ready to dominate a top-five opponent. Then the game flipped. Kentucky chipped away possession by possession until Andrew Carr’s jumper sent the game into overtime. The Wildcats ultimately won 90-89, snapping Gonzaga’s streak of 175 straight wins when leading by double digits at halftime. That early dominance only made the collapse sting more and raised questions about Gonzaga’s identity, late-game execution, and coaching adjustments. That memory still lingers heading into the rematch.
Series History
Friday’s game is the fourth of a six-game series that started in 2022. The home-and-home deal was set up under former coach John Calipari, who then struggled against Gonzaga in Spokane (2022) and at Rupp (2024). Calipari has since left for Arkansas, and Mark Pope now leads Kentucky, bringing his experience facing Gonzaga from his BYU tenure.
Beating Kentucky still carries weight. The Wildcats’ blue-blood reputation remains, stakes are high for both teams, and last year’s collapse adds tension to this chapter of the series.
Meet the Wildcats
Kentucky enters ranked No. 18 nationally and No. 16 on KenPom. Their offense ranks 23rd, defense 13th, but the team has one of the weakest schedules of any top-20 program. Recent losses include 96-88 to Louisville and a narrow 67-64 home defeat to North Carolina, where they shot just 43% overall and 8% from three, getting out-rebounded 41-30.
Sophomore guard Denzel Aberdeen leads Kentucky with 13.5 points per game, while wing Otega Oweh adds 13.4 points per game with speed that keeps defenders on their toes. Sharpshooter Collin Chandler (20-of-43 from deep) adds scoring pop, and 7-foot freshman Malachi Moreno anchors the paint, leading the team in rebounds.
Depth has been a challenge. Rim-protector Jayden Quaintance hasn’t played after knee surgery, and point guard Jaland Lowe is limited by a shoulder injury. Despite this, Kentucky’s combination of perimeter shooting, rebounding, and half-court physicality makes them a team Gonzaga cannot underestimate.
Keys to the Game
1. Limit the Three-Point Line
Pope’s teams thrive behind the arc. Gonzaga’s guards must stay attached through screens, flares, and quick ball movement. Kentucky shot 1-for-13 from deep against UNC—don’t let them get “hot” again.
2. Control Possessions
Kentucky relies heavily on rebounding and second-chance points. Gonzaga must dominate the glass and exploit Kentucky’s turnovers, which average over 10 per game. Active hands in passing lanes could turn possessions into fast-break opportunities.
3. Let the Bigs Set the Tone
Kentucky’s interior depth is limited beyond Malachi Moreno. Gonzaga can attack inside-out, running through Graham Ike and using Huff’s versatility to force rotations, collapse the floor, and open the perimeter.
Final Thoughts
Gonzaga has the chance to reset after last week’s Michigan loss and erase the memory of last year’s collapse to Kentucky. Friday’s game offers a clear path to regain momentum before the new year.
Tipoff is Friday, Dec. 5, at 4:00 p.m. PT from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. Coverage is on ESPN2, with radio on 96.1 FM and the Varsity Sports App. Kentucky brings talent, length, and a passionate fan base. Gonzaga brings urgency and a chance to reclaim control of the series.
