Kentucky’s dismal offensive performance against Ohio State left fans frustrated and nostalgic for a chaotic era many thought was behind them. The game was eerily reminiscent of the “dribble-drive” days under John Calipari, a time when the Wildcats often relied on sheer athleticism and second-chance points rather than structured offensive schemes. For a program now led by Mark Pope, who champions discipline, efficiency, and a modernized offensive approach, this performance was an alarming step backward.
The Wildcats’ display was lackluster from the opening tip. Sloppy ball-handling, wild drives into heavy traffic, and poor shot selection plagued Kentucky throughout the game. Instead of running cohesive plays or finding open teammates, the players seemed to freelance their way into mistakes, frequently turning the ball over or forcing up contested shots. Kentucky’s shooting woes were glaring: they managed an abysmal 29.8% from the field, including a dreadful 4-of-22 from three-point range. The lack of offensive rhythm was painfully obvious, as Ohio State capitalized on Kentucky’s missteps with strong transition play and efficient shooting.
Kentucky looks absolutely horrible. Like they thought they were going to NYC just for fun and forgot they had a game.
Looks like Calipari offense.
— College Basketball Wire (@CBBWire) December 22, 2024
Perhaps the most baffling aspect of the game was the Wildcats’ inability to make meaningful adjustments. Despite scoring just 30 points in the first half, Pope’s team continued to stick with the same ineffective strategy after the break. Ohio State’s aggressive, smothering defense left Kentucky scrambling for answers that never came. The Buckeyes maintained control on both ends of the floor, finishing with an impressive 56.6% shooting clip, while Kentucky’s struggles only deepened.
What made the performance so jarring was how much it clashed with Pope’s philosophy. Since taking over the program, Pope has stressed the importance of ball movement, spacing, and making smart, high-percentage plays. But against Ohio State, those principles were nowhere to be found. Instead, fans were treated to an unsettling flashback to an era defined by chaotic drives and questionable shot selection—an era many believed was left behind with Calipari.
Calipari back calling the offense for Kentucky? A lot of 1 on 1 throw up a bad shot plays right now
— Scott Brown (@scottbrownyse2) December 22, 2024
Even a stellar night at the free-throw line, where the Wildcats converted 27 of their 32 attempts, wasn’t enough to keep them competitive. The lack of offensive cohesion overshadowed any bright spots, leaving Kentucky fans with more questions than answers.
The Wildcats’ performance in Madison Square Garden served as a wake-up call. If Pope and his team want to steer Kentucky basketball back toward its storied tradition of excellence, they’ll need to address these glaring issues immediately. Fans have endured too many nights like this to accept a regression into a chaotic, ineffective style of play. For Pope, the challenge moving forward is clear: restore order, embrace efficiency, and prove that Kentucky basketball can be better than what was on display against Ohio State.