Kentucky Opens Season With 85-57 Win Over Manhattan
Kentucky beat Manhattan 85-57 in its season opener on November 3, with Milan Momcilovic scoring 24 points and the Wildcats’ guards contributing across the floor.
Kentucky began its season with a 28-point victory over Manhattan on November 3, as the Wildcats’ offense delivered a strong opening performance. The win leaves the team one tune-up game away from a matchup with Kansas, the next major test on its schedule.
Milan Momcilovic led Kentucky with 24 points, adding five rebounds and an assist. He made six of nine attempts from three-point range. Jodie Meeks holds Kentucky’s single-season record with 117 three-pointers, set in 2008-09; Momcilovic made six in the opener.
The Wildcats also got promising contributions from their guards. Zoom Diallo finished with 12 points, three rebounds and two assists, while Alex Wilkins had 11 points, five assists and seven steals. Freshman Mason Williams added seven points and five assists. Ball security remains an area for the guards to improve, but all three had productive nights.
Kentucky had less success at the four position. Ousmane N’Diaye and Justin McBirde combined to make three of 12 shots. Kam Williams is expected back soon, which could affect their playing time. N’Diaye and McBirde were expected to improve as the season progresses, with N’Diaye seen as having considerable potential.