Ajae Petty explains how Kentucky adjusted to Georgia's offensive, defensive approach

The Kentucky Wildcats jumped out to a 36-22 halftime lead over the Georgia Bulldogs during the first round of the SEC Women’s Basketball Tournament. A key piece of that early lead was forward Ajae Petty, who had eight points in the first 20 minutes.

Petty spoke to the SEC Network going into halftime, explaining that slowing the pace down was what allowed her and the Kentucky offense to find success against Georgia.

“Just recognizing how they’re playing me,” Ajae Petty. “You know, they’re bringing the double sometimes and I’m bringing it. So, just slowing down and watch how they’re playing on me.”

One of the biggest reasons that Kentucky controlled the first half was their edge rebounding the ball, with the Wildcats snagging 26 rebounds to only 13 that Georgia was able to grab. That’s something that started with being aggressive against the Bulldogs’ best offensive players, according to Petty.

“Just being aggressive, moving around a lot,” Ajae Petty said. “Just making sure that the players that usually go for a lot of points aren’t touching the ball.”

Ajae Petty ended the first half with eight points and nine rebounds to go along with an assist.

Initially, it was a slow start offensively for both teams. However, Eniya Russell came into the game from the bench and sparked the Wildcats. She had 10 points off the bench in the first half, helping to build up that Kentucky lead.

Kentucky is the 12th seed in the SEC Tournament while Georgia has entered as the 13th seed. For both teams, it was a disappointing conference slate. However, the conference tournament is giving each team a chance to make up for those struggles. The winner of this game will move on to try and upset a talented Tennessee team.

The Wildcats came into the SEC Tournament on a two-game losing streak. For their part, the Bulldogs lost five of their last six. These two teams met in Athens in early February, where Georgia managed to come out on top, winning by seven points. That was their only previous meeting this season.

Even amid the team’s struggles, Ajae Petty has had an excellent season, proving to be one of the most improved players in the entire SEC. Now a senior, she is averaging 14.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game this season. She has had double-doubles in three of her last five games.