KSR Postgame UK MBB vs Auburn – March 1, 2025

Published on March 1, 2025 by iHeartPodcasts and Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM)

Introduction

In this episode of the Local Toy Dealers KSR Postgame Show, hosts Matt Jones and Billy Rutledge delve deep into the Kentucky Wildcats' recent basketball performance, focusing on their latest defeat against Auburn on a tumultuous Saturday afternoon at Rupp Arena. Broadcasting from 10 AM to noon, the KSR crew provides comprehensive analysis, listener interactions, and exclusive insights into the Wildcats' season as they navigate their standing in the SEC and eye the upcoming NCAA tournament.

Game Overview: Kentucky vs. Auburn

The focal point of the episode is the Wildcats' disheartening loss to the top-ranked Auburn Tigers with a final score of 94-78. Billy Rutledge begins by addressing the unexpected disruption during the game:

[00:00] Billy Rutledge: "It was a really odd day. I mean, I'll be honest with you, when I start, I didn't see the last 12 minutes of the game and chances are you didn't either, right? Because we lost the TV feed."

A power outage near the television truck led to the abrupt end of live coverage, marking the first time in 25 years that a UK game wasn't fully televised. Rutledge reflects on the potential silver lining:

[04:45] Billy Rutledge: "Maybe a blessing in disguise because Kentucky was down 18 when the power went out, and we ended up losing by 16."

Key Players and Injuries

A major discussion revolves around the absence of Jackson Robinson, a pivotal player now sidelined for the season due to a wrist injury requiring surgery. Rutledge emphasizes Robinson's importance to the team:

[07:30] Billy Rutledge: "He's going to have surgery Wednesday. I really liked him. I think he's exactly what Kentucky needs."

With Robinson out, the burden shifts to the remaining starters. Rutledge praises the starting five—Butler, Away, Brea Williams, and Carr—while expressing concern over the bench's underperformance:

[08:50] Billy Rutledge: "Without Jackson Robinson, I think we have five guys that are really good. Our starting five is an NCAA tournament elite eight level group, but our bench made only five points tonight."

Coaching and Strategy

The episode critically examines Coach Mark Pope's strategies and decisions during the game. Rutledge identifies two critical phases where Kentucky faltered:

1. First Substitutions in the First Half:

   [03:15] Billy Rutledge: "We went to the bench at the beginning, took the starters out, brought in a couple of guys off the bench, and they just took advantage."

2. End of the First Half and Early Second Half:

   [05:45] Billy Rutledge: "In the start of the second half, it was our starters and six turnovers before you even get a field goal attempt up."

Rutledge also critiques the offensive game plan, highlighting Kentucky's reliance on three-point shooting rather than finishing at the rim:

[06:20] Billy Rutledge: "We only made four threes. If your offensive game plan is to score at the rim, we're just not good at it."

Refereeing Issues

A significant portion of the discussion centers on controversial officiating during the game. Rutledge voices frustration over specific calls, such as the double foul and flagrant foul notations:

[17:24] Billy Rutledge: "He hit him in the face. Whether I think that's a good rule or not, it is. But I don't understand how you can not call foul and then decide to review it."

Listeners expressed similar grievances, prompting a broader conversation about the fairness and consistency of refereeing in college basketball.

Tournament Implications

With only two games remaining in the regular season, Kentucky's standing in the SEC is precarious, holding an 88-19 SEC record and an overall 19-10. Rutledge projects Kentucky likely securing an eighth seed in the SEC tournament, potentially facing Auburn again in the quarterfinals:

[09:57] Billy Rutledge: "We're probably going to be the eighth seed and might face Auburn again in the quarterfinals."

He also speculates on the Wildcats' chances in the NCAA tournament without Robinson, suggesting reliance on their strong starting five and the need for the bench to step up:

[25:03] Billy Rutledge: "Without Jackson Robinson, Kobe Bray is gonna have to step up the most."

Listener Interactions

The show features a series of listener calls, each bringing unique perspectives and concerns:

1. Tasha from Louisville ([15:55]): Expresses frustration over the team's recent losses and a specific complaint about "Doug Shouse," mistakenly referred to by another caller.

2. Heather from Louisville ([37:13]): Initially intends to call in about gameplay but transitions to a personal plea involving a friend, highlighting the show's interactive nature.

3. Benjamin from UK ([42:00]): Defends key players like Trent, Noah, and Travis Perry, arguing against negative perceptions and emphasizing their potential contributions if given the chance.

4. Other Callers: Discuss refereeing decisions, player performance, and broader team strategies, reflecting a diverse range of fan opinions and fostering a dynamic dialogue.

Player Performance and Development

Rutledge evaluates individual performances, noting standout players and areas needing improvement:

• Kobe Bray: Emerges as the leading scorer, especially crucial with Robinson's absence.

  [56:08] Billy Rutledge: "Kobe Bray is gonna be the one that has to step up the most."

• Ansley Almanor and Brandon Garrison: Highlighted for their defensive capabilities but critiqued for offensive lag.

Rutledge also discusses the importance of developing bench players to ensure consistent team performance:

[21:53] Billy Rutledge: "We have to go into the portal and get three or four studs. If we want to compete next year, we have to do that."

Coaching Philosophy and Team Building

The conversation touches on the challenges faced by Coach Pope in assembling a competitive team under tight timelines and with significant injuries:

[43:44] Billy Rutledge: "Mark's got to really think about how he builds these rosters because next year, we already have three freshmen and trying to get a fourth."

Rutledge compares Pope's situation to other coaches who had to rebuild their teams quickly, emphasizing the need for strategic recruitment to maintain competitiveness.

Future Prospects and Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, Rutledge shares his optimistic yet realistic outlook on Kentucky's potential to make a March run despite current setbacks:

[57:17] Billy Rutledge: "This is probably, we're probably going to go into the tournament. I'm going to guess we're going to be a four seed. If we do, then I think we'll win our first game..."

He underscores the unpredictable nature of March basketball but maintains hope that Kentucky can leverage their strengths to advance in the tournament.

The episode concludes with scheduling announcements for upcoming shows and a reiteration of their sponsor messages, ensuring listeners are informed about future content and promotional offers.

Notable Quotes

• Billy Rutledge on Auburn's Offense:

  "They are really, really good offensively, like historically good offensively when it comes to efficiency." [04:00]

• Rutledge on Team's Turnover Issue:

  "We cannot have 18 turnovers. We cannot go four for 17 from three. We have to be great." [09:15]

• On Coach Pope's Team Building:

  "...you have to go get the second way, which is Auburn's way, to go get juniors and seniors that are really good..." [21:53]

• Responding to Fan Praise:

  "I do think we're in the tournament. Just going to have to roll with them. And it is what it is." [08:30]

Final Thoughts

The KSR Postgame Show provides an in-depth analysis of Kentucky's current basketball season, highlighting both triumphs and challenges. With key players injured and strategic shortcomings evident in crucial game phases, the Wildcats face a pivotal juncture as they approach the postseason. Through expert commentary, listener engagement, and a balanced perspective, Matt Jones and Billy Rutledge offer listeners a comprehensive understanding of the team's dynamics, fostering a community of informed and passionate Kentucky basketball fans.

For more updates and detailed analyses, tune in to the Local Toy Dealers KSR Postgame Show from Monday to Friday, 10 AM to noon.