The Cardinals and the Cats players and fans always talk a little smack before this game, and the coaches can sometimes get involved too. When asked about Kentucky specifically, Pat Kelsey showed the ultimate respect to a team that is still building to what it can be.
"Obviously, they're very good... KenPom has them the #1 team in the country for a reason. They're very talented."
This is a team without their defensive anchor in Jayden Quaintance, a limited Jaland Lowe, a hurt Trent Noah and a whole lot of kinks to work out.