Kentucky has had a terrible season. One of the worst in literally 100 years.
But luck hasn’t quite been on their side either.
The Cats have had the lead in the second in so many of their 13 losses. For whatever reason, often time the ball hasn’t bounced their way, resulting in a historically bad season.
Another area of misfortune has been the whistle. Or lack there of in UK’s heartbreaking 81-80 loss to the Razorbacks on Tuesday night.
With Kentucky trailing by three with just under two minutes to go in the game, Arkansas freshman forward Jaylin Williams drove to the paint on Devin Askew. Instead of calling a what appeared to be a travel, the referee instead rewarded Williams with a trip to the line.
Was he fouled? Maybe but you can see yourself that steps were taken far before any contact was made. Calipari was livid that walking wasn’t called.
ESPN commentator Jimmy Dykes wasn’t a fan of the blown call and even mentioned that Williams may have taken four steps.
It goes without saying that one call could have changed the outcome of the game considering it was a one-point loss.
Making matters even worse was the ‘foul’ called on Jacob Toppin after Kentucky had taken an 80-79 lead in the final seconds. It appeared he got all ball, but the foul was called as Jalen Tate hit two free throws to win the game.
BJ Boston probably said it best about the call.
BJ Boston on the foul on Toppin: “I honestly don’t think it was a foul. I think the refs gave them that game.”
— Tyler Thompson (@MrsTylerKSR) February 10, 2021
Once again if a minor thing here or two goes UK’s way maybe they have a considerably better overall record.
Instead – Kentucky is now stained with an abysmal 5-13 record, leaving the Big Blue Nation a frustrated as ever. The loss on Saturday to Tennessee was especially disheartening because of how well the guys executed for 30 minutes.
Then tonight, it appeared UK had enough in the tank to steal a win in Rupp Arena, but once again, it just didn’t come to fruition.
Regardless of questionable calls, this team has not been able to take advantage of any opportunities late in games.
It felt like tonight would be the night that Calipari’s squad finally finished one out.
Maybe next time?