Oweh Heating Up, Aberdeen Catching Fire, Pope Tightening the Screws — Kentucky’s Next Opponent Better Be Ready!
The message from Kentucky’s scrimmage wasn’t subtle — this team might be raw, but they’re dangerous.
In front of fans hungry for a glimpse of the new era under Coach Mark Pope, the Wildcats took on LA Familia in a scrimmage that was part showcase, part statement. The final result? A narrow 6-point win for Kentucky — but the true takeaway was in the energy, the grit, and the unexpected sparks from players like Ortega Oweh and Denzel Aberdeen.
After the game, Pope himself didn’t shy away from describing his team as “raw,” noting that there’s still much to clean up. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing — in fact, it might be the scariest thing for Kentucky’s upcoming opponents.
Because if this is what a raw Kentucky team looks like… what happens when they’re polished?
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Oweh and Aberdeen Lead the Charge
Ortega Oweh was electric — attacking the rim, moving without the ball, and showing the kind of two-way intensity Pope has been preaching since day one. It’s clear Oweh has taken a step forward, and reports say Pope gave him specific improvements to focus on ahead of the scrimmage. He delivered in full.
Denzel Aberdeen, meanwhile, was catching fire from beyond the arc, drilling multiple threes and energizing the team in crucial moments. His confidence has grown, and it showed in every possession. When paired with fellow shooter Trent Noah, Kentucky’s backcourt suddenly looked a lot more lethal than many expected heading into this phase of preseason play.
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Pope Isn’t Playing Favorites — He’s Demanding Excellence
While the performances were promising, Pope was clear: this team is still a work in progress. But he’s not here for potential. He’s here to win.
That was evident in some bold coaching decisions — namely, the fact that top recruits Jayden Quaintance and Collin Chandler didn’t see the court. While no official explanation was given, fans and insiders believe Pope is sending an early message: minutes are earned, not handed out.
The players who did play? They earned it — with hustle, defense, and unselfish play.
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The Blueprint Is Taking Shape
There’s still plenty for Kentucky to work on: defensive communication, off-ball movement, and consistency in transition. But the identity of this team is becoming clear.
Pope wants high-motor guys. Shooters who don’t hesitate. Wings who crash the boards. Guards who get back on defense. And most importantly — players who buy in.
As one assistant coach was overheard saying:
> “We don’t need polished guys yet. We need workers who’ll get there.”
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Next Game? Bring the Popcorn.
With Oweh heating up, Aberdeen hitting big shots, and Pope tightening the screws on accountability and effort, Kentucky’s next opponent should take notice.
The Wildcats may not be at full power yet, but they’re forming something real — and the rest of college basketball is about to feel it.
Next game: Expect sharper rotations, even more energy, and possibly the debut of Chandler and Quaintance if they’ve earned it.
One thing’s for sure — Pope has set the tone, and the fight for minutes is officially on.
Kentucky is just getting started.
