Thursday Headlines: Kentucky wins big in Pope’s debut and Mikkel Skinner commits

A big win on the court and on the recruiting trail

What a debut for new Kentucky Wildcats basketball coach Mark Pope.

It was just an exhibition game, so it won’t count on the official record, but the Wildcats looked strong from start to finish, jumping out to a 60-24 lead at halftime against Kentucky Wesleyan and finished it off in the second half by coming away with a 71-point victory by a score of 123-52.

The Cats shot the ball well, finishing the game shooting better than 63 percent from the field and 50 percent from 3. Kentucky had a balanced effort with pretty much everyone on the roster getting in on the action, as eight different guys finished in double figures with Jaxson Robinson leading the way with 19.

It’s just an exhibition against a Division II opponent, so we definitely can’t overreact, but it was certainly a feel-good game to see this group in action and see what they can do, especially with the ball movement and shooting.

This team certainly looks like it could be a lot of fun to watch.

The game wasn’t the only news of the night for UK, as the football program picked up a big commitment last night.

4-star tight end Mikkel Skinner committed to Kentucky last night, picking the Cats over offers from Cincinnati, South Carolina, Appalachian State, and a few others. He’s ranked 182nd overall in the class of 2025 by 247 Sports, which also ranks him 11th among tight ends.

Skinner has previously decommitted from Cincinnati, and since decommitting, many thought Kentucky would be the destination.

Skinner expects to enroll early at Kentucky, but don’t be surprised if South Carolina continues to make a run at him.

Tweet of the Day

In case you missed the game, here’s a good six-minute rewind.

Headlines

KSR’s takeaways from Mark Pope’s debut – KSR

A big pop for Trent Noah!

Kentucky proves it will shoot its way out of slumps – Cats Pause

It seems like Pope isn’t afraid to let them keep shooting.

Last night’s game shows where Kentucky is going – Herald Leader

Still a lot to learn about this team.

Will Mark Stoops make necessary changes? – Vaughts Views

Remains to be seen.

Miami Heat dedicate court to Pat Riley – ESPN

A deserved honor.

Eli, Marshawn among final candidates for 2025 HOF class – Bleacher Report

Hard to believe those guys are now eligible.

Lamar Jackson is on a historic pace – Yahoo

He’s been exceptional this year.

NBA will reportedly investigate Embiid’s early season absence – NBC Sports

Could be nothing to see.

Kennesaw State picks up first FBS victory – CBS Sports

And they did it as a 26.5 point underdog.