No. 23 Kentucky faces its toughest test of the fall when it hosts No. 19/16 Texas Tech at Rupp Arena. The Wildcats are using the matchup to gauge the progress of a young team still learning Mark Pope’s systems and game-day routines.

By the Numbers
  • Kentucky beat Little Rock 69-49 in its exhibition opener.
  • Milan Momcilovic scored 16 points; Alex Wilkins had 11 and Mason Williams added 10.
  • Texas Tech guard Donovan Atwell averaged 13.5 points per game last season.
Yes, But

Texas Tech will be without first-team All-American J.T. Toppin, who is still recovering from a torn ACL. The Red Raiders remain a formidable opponent, with Atwell among the experienced contributors available.

What's Next

Kentucky hosts Texas Tech Friday at 7 p.m. ET on SEC Network Plus. Pope will be watching for signs of growth as the Wildcats continue through training camp.

Bottom Line

The result matters, but Kentucky’s bigger objective is to learn how its young roster responds to a ranked opponent before the regular season begins.