People from the periphery may highlight Malik Monk’s 23-point performance as the main reason why the Kentucky Wildcats were able to leave Madison Square Garden with a 69-48 win over the Big Ten’s elite program, but those in attendance know there was one reason for Kentucky’s triumph.
Defense.
John Calipari’s squad completely stifled Michigan State freshman Miles Bridges, holding him to six points on a night in which he made just 2-of-11 shots from the field.
“We’re getting better,” Calipari said after the game. “Our pick-and-roll defense stinks right now, but it’ll get better. We get out rebounded again, but we’re getting better. These guys took a lot of pride in this game.”
How good was the Wildcats’ defense?