Some belated observations following UF’s 84-65 win over Kentucky:
– Credit Florida for another strong effort on the boards against the Wildcats. The Gators outrebounded Kentucky 32-27 and limited the Wildcats to just six offensive rebounds. Not bad, considering Kentucky entered the game first in the Southeastern Conference and second in the nation in rebounding margin at plus-10.1
– Florida was for more efficient in its 3-point shooting against Kentucky, finishing 9 of 15 from beyond the arc. Dorian Finney-Smith (3-4 from 3-point range) provided a lift off the bench with his shooting. In its previous two games, Florida had attempted 54 3-pointers, so it was good to see the Gators play with more inside-out balance and attack the basket.
– To prepare for the SEC Tournament, Florida coach Billy Donovan said he wants his team to balance the floor better off missed shots and play better transition defense. During Kentucky’s 15-0 run in the second half against the Gators, missed shots on offense bled into the defense, with Kentucky scoring a handful of easy baskets in transition. It’s something Donovan said the Gators will work on in the coming days.
