By Les Johns

Key player

Senior guard Darius Miller was absent through three quarters of the game, but turned it on late during the Cats’ rally from seven points down in the final six minutes. Miller went from scoreless to connecting for 12 points, including three 3-pointers to lead to Cats on a 20-4 run to finish the game.

Turning Point/Key Stretch

Down 60-53 with 6:29 to play, the Cats exploded for a 20-4 run to finish the game that started with Darius Miller connecting on three free-throws after being fouled on a 3-point attempt.

The Good

The Cats persevered on the road, facing an athletic team and a hostile crowd. They came back from their largest halftime  deficit of the season.

The Bad

Three-point defense. The Bulldogs connected deep early and often. MSU hit 9-for-20 behind the arc compared to UK’s 6-for-16.

Stat of the Game

The Cats connected at the line, hitting 17-for-21, including several during the 20-4 run to close out the game.

What’s Next

The No. 1 Cats face the Vanderbilt Commodores (19-8, 8-4 SEC) at Rupp Arena Saturday at Noon. Vandy gave UK a strong test in Nashville two weeks ago, with the Cats coming away with a 69-63 win thanks to strong defense down the stretch.