KSR Podcast Summary: February 12, 2025 - Hour 1

Podcast Information:

• Title: KSR
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM)
• Description: Matt Jones and the KSR crew bring you the latest in UK news and views Mon.-Fri. from 10 to noon.
• Episode: 2025-02-12- KSR - Hour 1
• Release Date: February 12, 2025

1. Game Recap: Kentucky Wildcats vs. Tennessee Volunteers

The episode kicks off with Matt Jones celebrating a significant victory for the Kentucky Wildcats over the Tennessee Volunteers. The game, held at KS Bar Grill, ended with a score of 85-74, marking a sweeping season series win, fifth out of the last six against Tennessee.

Matt Jones highlights the celebratory atmosphere both at the bar and Rupp Arena:

“[02:25] Ryan Lemond: ... what a bizarre way to win against your rival in Rupp Arena.”

The game was notably a "shorthanded" effort for Kentucky, with key players sidelined due to injuries. Despite missing their top three point guards, the team managed to secure a win thanks to the emergence of bench players.

2. Key Player Performances

Ansley Almanor

• Performance Highlights:
  • Scored crucial points in the final moments.
  • Achieved a significant play with an and-one off the dribble.

Matt Jones emphasizes Almanor's unexpected contribution:

“[04:24] Matt Jones: ... Ansley Almanor beats a guy off the dribble and gets an and one...”

Kobe Braya

• Performance Highlights:
  • Made several big three-point shots.
  • Contributed smooth scoring under pressure.

Ryan Lemond praises Braya's shooting prowess:

“[04:55] Ryan Lemond: ... Braya just keeps scooting back and making far threes. It was just an amazing victory.”

Trent Noah

• Performance Highlights:
  • Scored 18 points, showcasing significant improvement.
  • Delivered clutch free throws late in the game.

Matt Jones remarks on Noah’s unexpected performance:

“[05:05] Matt Jones: He had not shot a free throw all season. Then he made two clutch free throws down the stretch.”

Other Notable Players:

• Travis Perry: Achieved a career high in points during the first half.
• IAy Perry: Made strategic plays off the bounce and contributed to the team's momentum.

Drew Franklin reflects on the collective effort:

“[02:25] Drew Franklin: ... Ansley Almanor to carry in. Those three guys came through for you.”

3. Coaching Strategies and Team Dynamics

Coach Mark Pope’s decisions were pivotal in the game’s outcome. Despite missing starters, his strategy to rely on bench strength paid off.

Matt Jones discusses Pope's tactical adjustments:

“[08:09] Matt Jones: ... Pope out schemed Barnes. So Barnes clearly told his team, we're not shooting 45 threes. That's not what we do...”

The team's adaptability was evident when facing Tennessee’s top defensive unit, leading to successful three-point shooting despite Tennessee's stringent defenses.

Ryan Lemond analyzes the defensive challenge:

“[06:56] Ryan Lemond: ... we have hit 50% of our threes in both games, but that's the number one three-point defense in the country.”

4. Upcoming Games and Season Outlook

Looking ahead, the Wildcats face a challenging schedule, including games against Texas, Vanderbilt (Vandy), and Alabama. The focus remains on maintaining player health, especially key contributors Butler and Robinson, who are expected to return by March.

Matt Jones outlines the importance of upcoming matches:

“[15:00] Drew Franklin: So, you got to watch it a lot while listening to your post game show...”

The team’s performance has ignited optimism for a strong postseason run, contingent on key players’ health and continued bench support.

5. Impact of Local Players and Fan Connection

The presence of local Kentucky players, Trent Noah and Travis Perry, has significantly boosted fan engagement. Their roots in small Kentucky towns resonate deeply with the local audience, fostering a strong community connection.

Matt Jones underscores the sentimental value:

“[18:36] Matt Jones: ... for citizens of Kentucky, having two Kentucky kids on the team playing well is really important...”

Their contributions not only enhance team performance but also inspire young fans across the state, reinforcing Kentucky's rich basketball tradition.

6. Audience Interaction and Callers’ Insights

Listeners actively participated through calls, offering perspectives on player performances and team strategies.

• Jay and Lyndon: Discussed and supported the "Mountain Mamba" nickname, a fan-favorite moniker for the team.
• Greg: Highlighted Trent Noah’s effort and energy on both ends of the court.

Greg's Call:

“[40:04] G: ... Trent Noah... contributes that energy and that spark.”

The hosts engaged with callers, fostering a dynamic and interactive discussion environment.

7. Additional Sports Highlights and Anecdotes

Beyond college basketball, the podcast delved into other sports events:

Creighton vs. Yukon Game in Omaha

• Coach Danny Hurley made headlines with his post-game remarks, generating both controversy and amusement.

Drew Franklin criticizes Hurley's behavior:

“[36:51] Matt Jones: ... yelling shut up baldy to the guy in the crowd when you yourself are bald is a pretty astounding move.”

Matt Jones shares personal anecdotes from past sporting events, highlighting intense fan interactions and memorable moments, such as fights at Madison Square Garden during a Yukon game.

8. Promotions and Announcements

While advertisements were generally skipped, notable promotions included:

• Commonwealth Causes Bourbon Raffle: Offering $20,000 worth of bourbon, including rare bottles like the Weller Millennium and the 2024 Double Eagle.
• Georgia Amore Appearance: Scheduled to appear later in the show, adding an engaging element for listeners.

Promotional Highlight:

“[32:18] ... Georgia Amore will be here. I'm glad.”

9. Humorous Segments and Personal Stories

The hosts infused humor and personal stories to keep the discussion lively:

• Matt Jones' Missed Appearance: Recounted an attempt to join a primetime news show but prioritized the live game over the interview.

Matt Jones’ Anecdote:

“[33:54] Matt Jones: ... First place is beating Kentucky basketball. Yeah, I might be a stinking liberal, but first, I'm a Kentucky fan.”

• Drew Franklin’s Past Encounter: Shared a fight at Madison Square Garden, illustrating the passionate and sometimes aggressive nature of sports fandom.

10. Closing Remarks

As the first hour concluded, the hosts reiterated their commitment to covering Kentucky sports, emphasizing the importance of team health and upcoming challenges. They thanked listeners for their engagement and hinted at continued exciting discussions in the next segment.

Matt Jones' Final Thoughts:

“[42:30] Matt Jones: ... this group. A reigniting of that flame that I think makes Kentucky different.”

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Jones on Ansley Almanor's Impact [04:24]:

  “Ansley Almanor beats a guy off the dribble and gets an and one. Like, I mean, you could not have seen that happening.”

• Ryan Lemond on Trent Noah's Free Throws [05:09]:

  “Noah hit clutch free throws down the stretch. He's going to be one of these guys.”

• Drew Franklin on Danny Hurley [36:51]:

  “Calling after the game, they said, you know, hey, you yelled two rings and shut up baldy. Do you think that was a good thing to do? And his answer was yes.”

This summary encapsulates the vibrant discussions, key sports insights, and engaging interactions that defined the February 12, 2025, episode of KSR. Whether you're a dedicated Wildcats fan or new to Kentucky sports, this episode offers a comprehensive glance into the team's current triumphs, challenges, and the passionate community that supports them.