Kentucky accomplished at least two things in Friday’s 73-63 victory over Utah Valley. The Cats got the 2017-18 season off to a successful start. And the Cats confirmed, at least for the time being, the suspicion that they will be a much better team in an uptempo game.
Kentucky played a half-court game in the first half. It got out on the fast break in the second half.
The difference was startling.
Facing a set defense, UK trailed 34-25 at halftime.
With its transition game engaged in the second half, Kentucky pulled away.
Kentucky was at a distinct disadvantage in terms of experience.