Georgia State faced a tough challenge in a recent game against the No. 8 ranked Kentucky Wildcats, ultimately losing 105-76 at Rupp Arena on November 29. The Panthers displayed determination throughout the matchup, with Cesare Edwards standing out as he led the team by scoring 21 points on 8-of-15 shooting, which included three successful three-pointers. Teammate Zarique Nutter also made a significant impact, contributing 19 points, while Malachi Brown added 11 points paired with five assists.
The game presented an uphill battle for Georgia State, who held their own with a commendable shooting percentage of 46.4% from the field and an impressive 52.4% from three-point range. Despite trailing 48-33 at halftime, the Panthers did not back down, continuing to fight in the second half. However, Kentucky’s size and depth proved challenging; they scored heavily in the paint (62 points) and took advantage of fast-break opportunities (23 points) to maintain their lead. Georgia State’s defense managed to force nine turnovers, but they struggled against Kentucky’s rebounding prowess, with the Wildcats securing 36 rebounds compared to the Panthers’ 27.
In terms of team performance, Georgia State excelled from beyond the arc, hitting 11 of their 21 three-point attempts. The efforts of the players showcased their potential and resilience on the court.
Looking ahead, the Panthers are slated to return to action on Friday, December 6, against in-state rival Kennesaw State, providing an opportunity for redemption and a chance to build on the strengths demonstrated in the game against Kentucky. The team and their fans remain hopeful that the lessons learned from this challenging matchup will translate into improved performances in future games.
This upcoming game against Kennesaw State will be a crucial opportunity for Georgia State to bounce back and demonstrate the resilience and talent they possess.