Kentucky versus Duke isn’t a traditional rivalry, since they don’t play that often. They’ve met just 23 times over the years, with Kentucky leading the series 12 – 11. However, if you ask the fans, it’s a heated rivalry, and they’ll meet again on Tuesday night.
The Wildcats had to rebuild their entire roster this year after the coaching change from John Calipari to Mark Pope. However, it’s a talented Kentucky roster, with lots of veteran leadership and a number of quality shooters.
Related: Kentucky up five spots in new Coaches Poll
The Blue Devils come into the game as the sixth ranked team in the country, led by number one recruit Cooper Flagg. They’re talented, as always, and will certainly test the new Kentucky roster.
Here is how the staff at UKWildcatsWire predict the game:
Kentucky 84 – Duke 93
Both teams can put points up in a hurry, so whichever team gets hot early will have an advantage. The Wildcats have more experience, and should try to be physical with the younger Blue Devils. Kentucky also has to limit second chance points, but Duke rebounds well.
The Cats will need their three-point shooters to be effective, and they cannot turn the ball over with careless passes. They should keep it close, but Duke is the better team..for now.