Kentucky’s next game might look like a routine matchup on paper, but Mark Pope’s pre-Valparaiso message struck a different tone — one that’s got fans wondering what’s really going on behind the scenes. Between Jaland Lowe’s long-awaited debut and the team’s push for consistency, there’s a lot more at play than meets the eye. Let’s dive in and see what’s really driving the Wildcats tonight at Rupp.
A major difference between this year’s Kentucky team and last year’s is timing. The 2024-25 Wildcats haven’t hit their stride just yet — and that’s exactly how Mark Pope wants it. Last season’s group peaked early in non-conference play. This one, however, is still learning, growing, and trending upward when it matters most.
Even with room to improve, the Wildcats are still playing good basketball. The second half against Nicholls showed glimpses of the offensive chemistry Pope has been preaching since day one. Now, with Valparaiso coming to town, Kentucky gets a chance to sharpen up before heading into the rivalry showdown at Louisville.
The headline of the night? Freshman guard Jaland Lowe makes his Wildcat debut, just three weeks removed from a shoulder injury. His return could give Kentucky’s offense the balance it’s been missing, providing another playmaker who can control tempo and distribute effectively.
Scouting Valparaiso
Valparaiso might not be the mid-major powerhouse it was in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, but the program still carries name recognition. The Beacons reached the Sweet 16 in 1998 under legendary coach Homer Drew, marking the peak of their golden era.
Recently, wins have been harder to come by. Valpo hasn’t had a winning season since 2019-20 — but head coach Roger Powell Jr. is starting to turn things around. In his second season, he doubled both the team’s overall and conference win totals while leading them to the Missouri Valley semifinals.
Valparaiso Players to Watch
1. JT Pettigrew (#7, Fr., 6’8” F) – Scored 13 points in the opener and hit the game-winning and-one vs. Eastern Illinois. A McDonald’s All-American nominee with elite family athleticism — his mom was a Big Ten volleyball star, and his dad and brother both played college basketball.
2. Isaiah Barnes (#11, R-Sr., 6’7” G) – The Tulsa transfer posted 15 points and 10 rebounds in his Valpo debut. A former four-star recruit who started at Michigan, Barnes brings physicality and scoring experience.
3. Rakim Chaney (#0, Fr., 6’3” G) – A dynamic scorer and defender who tallied 12 points and five steals in his first game. The former Florida Sun League Player of the Year is already making an impact.
4. Mark Brown Jr. (#10, Jr., 6’0” G) – A proven JUCO playmaker with strong passing instincts. Averaged 13.3 points and 4.3 assists last season at Snow College.
5. Carter Hopoi (#13, Fr., 6’11” F) – New Zealand native with multi-sport roots. Recorded six rebounds, two blocks, and two steals in his debut — a defensive presence Kentucky will need to account for.
6. Brody Whitaker (#3, 5th-Yr., 6’3” G) – A steady veteran who scored over 1,000 career points at Marian University before transferring to Indianapolis, where he averaged 14 points per game last season.
Head Coach: Roger Powell Jr.
Powell’s basketball journey is impressive — from playing in the 2005 NCAA title game with Illinois to coaching under Mark Few at Gonzaga and Jerry Stackhouse at Vanderbilt. He returned to Valpo in 2023 determined to rebuild, and he’s already established a culture built on discipline and efficiency.
Last year, Valpo ranked among the top 20 nationally in fewest turnovers and finished 11th in free-throw percentage. Those traits make the Beacons a tougher opponent than their record might suggest.
Keys to the Game for Kentucky
1. Win the Rebounding Battle
Valpo has solid rebounders, but Kentucky’s size and athleticism should dominate the paint. Expect Jayden Quaintance and Mo Dioubate to set the tone physically.
2. Pressure the Ball
With Lowe’s return, Kentucky can turn up the defensive intensity. Valpo had 14 turnovers against Eastern Illinois — something Pope’s guards will look to exploit.
3. Smart Shot Selection
The Wildcats need to continue improving their offensive decision-making. Good ball movement and patience will lead to higher-quality looks, especially from deep.
4. Free-Throw Focus
Kentucky’s free-throw shooting has been a concern — and it can’t continue if they expect to win big games. Tonight’s matchup is a good opportunity to iron that out before Louisville.
Prediction: Kentucky 82, Valparaiso 58
Valparaiso could make things interesting early, but Kentucky’s talent, depth, and defensive pressure should take over by halftime. Expect a more efficient offensive showing and a confident finish heading into Tuesday’s rivalry game.
