The Kentucky Wildcats stunned fans with a 92-68 blowout over Mississippi State on Saturday night, but one stat quietly tells the story of why this team suddenly looks like it’s hitting its stride.
Kentucky recorded 21 assists in the game — the most they’ve had all season against a high-major opponent. It might not jump off the box score like a dunk or a buzzer-beater, but Mark Pope says it’s the key to understanding the Wildcats’ transformation.
“Honestly, it’s amazing what happens when you pass the ball to your teammate a little bit,” Pope said after the game. “When guys move the ball and make the extra pass, everything else starts to click.”
Freshman Malachi Moreno led the way with six assists, four steals, and just one turnover, proving he can not only handle pressure but elevate the entire team’s performance. Pope credited him for steadying the team during a slow start and helping Kentucky regain momentum after falling behind early.
Kam Williams and Denzel Aberdeen also stepped up, pushing the pace, attacking downhill, and creating scoring opportunities for their teammates. Even bench players like Jasper Johnson contributed meaningful minutes in a game where Kentucky needed depth.
On defense, Kentucky adapted to Mississippi State’s physical pressure by implementing a new scheme crafted by assistant Mikhail McLean. The adjustment took a few minutes to settle in, but once it did, it allowed the Wildcats to control the tempo and create more open shots.
Pope says the 21-assist performance isn’t just a fluke; it’s evidence that the team is starting to play together in a way that has been missing all season. “We’re learning how to make plays for each other, and when we do that consistently, good things happen,” he said.
The takeaway? While fans may have focused on the final score or individual highlight plays, it was the unglamorous stat — assists over turnovers — that explains why Kentucky went from struggling early in the season to looking dominant on Saturday night.
With this level of ball movement and team cohesion, the Wildcats are showing they can overcome injuries, tough matchups, and early-game deficits. And if they keep this up, the SEC and the rest of college basketball might want to take notice.
