Kentucky WBB defeats Arizona State, 77-61 in Music City Classic

In what was looking to be a similar game to last week’s win over Purdue Fort Wayne, Kentucky pulled away early to mark the first victory of two games in the Music City Classic. The ‘Cats remain undefeated heading into tomorrow’s top 20 matchup against No. 19 Illinois.

While both teams struggled offensively in the beginning of the first quarter, Clara Strack was able to put down seven points to give her team a one point lead heading into the second. Arizona State’s best player, Tyi Skinner, didn’t even score until the end of the second quarter. In fact, Kentucky held her to 1-10 (10%) from the field in the first half. For reference, Skinner usually averages 21.6 points per game.

In the second, Strack took over the game, finishing the half with 14 points on 6-7 (85%) from the field, including a three-pointer. It wasn’t just Strack with a productive first half though. Teonni Key finished the half with 10 points on 3-5 (60%) from the field, plus five rebounds and three blocks.

CLARA STRACK KNOCKS DOWN THE THREE!! SHE'S UP TO 14!!

Kentucky 27 | Arizona St. 14 | 5:44 2Q

LIVE BLOG: https://t.co/Edu9pQQRm7
GAME THREAD: https://t.co/qLvU0d94ld pic.twitter.com/PBy8Ap3Xeq

— Katie Hutchison (@KHutchisonKSR) November 26, 2024

Arizona State’s Jalyn Brown led her team in scoring in the first half, finishing with 12 points. As a team though, the Sun Devils shot a measly 8-30 (23%) from the field, while Kentucky hit 16-31 (51%). The ‘Cats finished the half up 19 on the Sun Devils, 42-23, and didn’t stop there.

The third quarter started out slow, neither team being able to get any offensive production going. Arizona State’s Kennedy Basham opened up scoring with a free throw. The Sun Devils went on a short three point run before giving Strack a free throw. Arizona State cut the lead to 14, but Georgia Amoore answered with a drive to the basket. The third quarter went back and forth offensively, since the Sun Devils decided to find some consistency for the first time in the game.

Going into the fourth, Kentucky was only up 11 points, and Arizona State quickly cut the lead to eight. Kentucky immediately answered, finishing the game with a 16-point victory. Key marked her third double-double of the season, finishing with 16 points and 13 rebounds, along with six blocks. Strack led the Wildcats, ending with 22 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks. Amoore added 20 points on 7-16 (43.8%) from the field and nine assists. Amelia Hassett was the only other ‘Cat in double-digits, adding 10 points and nine rebounds.

Up next for Kentucky is game two of the Music City Classic. Tomorrow, the ‘Cats face No. 19 Illinois, who is also still undefeated this season. Tipoff on Wednesday is at 8:00 p.m. EST on BallerTV. Viewers can purchase an Event Pass for $20, which gives access to stream every game in the Music City Classic.