Late Wilkins three lifts Kentucky against Northern Arizona, 78-77, despite defensive concerns: Takeaways

Kentucky escapes late scare

Kentucky entered Friday’s matchup needing a lift after its loss to Kansas in the Champions Classic. The Wildcats built a lead in the first half, but Northern Arizona cut the margin to eight by halftime.

An 11-0 Lumberjacks run in the second half put Northern Arizona ahead 51-49 with 13:35 remaining. The teams traded scores from there, and Kentucky trailed by four with 18 seconds left.

Kentucky scored to make it a two-point game with 13.9 seconds remaining. After Northern Arizona missed a free throw, Malachi Moreno lost the rebound, giving the Lumberjacks another possession. Alex Wilkins then hit a three to put Kentucky ahead late.

Defense remains a concern

Northern Arizona repeatedly answered Kentucky’s scoring runs, keeping pressure on the Wildcats through the final buzzer. Kentucky struggled to defend the paint, particularly when its big players switched onto Lumberjacks big men.

Northern Arizona scored 26 points in the paint and had 11 second-chance points. The Lumberjacks also outrebounded Kentucky 32-20 and scored eight points off turnovers. The article described Northern Arizona as a 30-point underdog, yet the visitors stayed close enough to threaten Kentucky’s season outlook. Late boos from Kentucky fans reflected the strain of the close finish.

Wilkins delivers needed relief

The win spared Kentucky a damaging loss after its defeat to Kansas. The article said a loss could have significantly altered the season’s direction and put coach Mark Pope in an uncomfortable position.

Beyond the victory, the performance offered few clear positives, according to the article. Wilkins’ late shot gave Kentucky a reprieve, but the defensive issues remained as the Wildcats looked toward Indiana next Friday.