6. Kentucky (10-1)
We stress this each week but it’s important to remember that nobody on this Kentucky roster was here last season. Mark Pope arrived less than eight months ago and has built a team that looks like a legitimate national contender, already boasting wins over Duke and Gonzaga. That trend only continued this week and the Wildcats were glad to get an important piece back from injury.
Albeit heavy favorites, Kentucky hung on for a 78-67 win over Colgate back on Wednesday night. All five starters scored in double figures, including 17 points from Koby Brea and an Andrew Carr double-double. Saturday’s contest was even sweeter, as the Wildcats beat rival Louisville 93-85 to get their tenth win of the season. Most importantly, Lamont Butler returned from injury and scored 33 points, shooting a perfect 10 of 10 from the floor.
Teams built through the Transfer Portal can progress in many different ways but it’s almost been the best case scenario for these Wildcats. There are great scorers, very good defensive players, and a mix of veteran experience with raw talent on this team. Kentucky’s got a game against Ohio State next Saturday that looks a little easier than it would’ve a few weeks ago, but certainly have to get mentally ready for SEC play in a few weeks.