Kentucky’s recent matchup against Florida ended in disappointment as the Wildcats fell short, largely due to a significant rebounding deficit, with Florida dominating the boards 45-37, including a 25-17 lead in the second half. As they prepare for their upcoming game against Georgia at Rupp Arena on Tuesday night, the Wildcats are focusing on key areas to improve their performance.
Junior forward Mo Dioubate highlighted rebounding as a top priority ahead of the game, noting Georgia’s impressive capability on the boards. “That’s been a big emphasis,” Dioubate stated. “(Georgia) is a good rebounding team, one of the top (in the conference). We’ve got to be more aggressive with that.”
In addition to rebounding, Kentucky is also concentrating on their transition defense. Georgia ranks third in the league in scoring, averaging a staggering 90.3 points per game. They have surpassed the 100-point mark seven times this season, with two games exceeding 120 points. Dioubate acknowledged that the Wildcats need to be vigilant on defense to counter Georgia’s offensive prowess. “Transition defense, that’s a big emphasis as well,” he remarked.
Embracing his role as a spark off the bench, Dioubate is committed to bringing energy to the team. “I’m just trying to do what my team expects from me,” he expressed. “Just bringing the energy, being the energy guy… I know what it feels like to come off the bench and try to change the game. So that’s just what I try to do when I get in the game. Just try to help my teammates out as much as I can.”
With the regular season drawing to a close, Dioubate emphasizes the importance of maintaining hunger and determination. After suffering two losses in their initial SEC games, the Wildcats are motivated to shift their momentum. “You’ve got to stay hungry,” he emphasized. “We lost our first two SEC games, and that feeling we had that we’ve got to turn it around, we’ve just got to stay with that mentality.”
The Wildcats will have an opportunity to demonstrate their drive and make necessary adjustments against Georgia on Tuesday night, as they seek to bounce back and showcase their potential in the closing weeks of the season.