The Kentucky Wildcats traveled to Austin for a date with the Texas Longhorns tonight. In what was a shorthanded game for the Cats, they came up just short, losing 82-78.

Heading into tonight’s game, there were some major concerns about what to expect from this injury-filled UK roster. Well, that gave an answer quickly in this one as the Cats attacked from the tip. Some impressive offensive sets run, alongside some solid defense, helped Kentucky head into the locker room with a lead at 41-37.

Coming out of the half, Kentucky continued to put its foot on the gas, leading much of the way in the second half. However, it seems they ran out of gas in the final three minutes, as Texas’ momentum led it past the Cats with a huge run to end the game.

Despite the injuries, this loss is still one that stings. They had a team that was reeling on the ropes and couldn’t land the knockout punch.

Now, they will turn their attention to the Vanderbilt Commodores on Wednesday night. After an early conference loss to Vandy in Nashville, the Cats need to bounce back and win one in Rupp.

Let’s take a look at four things to know from tonight’s loss.

Kentucky can’t overcome injuries

By now, we all know that this Kentucky team is shorthanded, and it appears they will be for the foreseeable future.

Despite that, the Cats ran a rotation of players as the lead ball-handler, giving the BBN a look at what they can expect going forward. Whether it be Travis Perry, Amari Williams, Otega Oweh, or Koby Brea, Mark Pope is looking for answers at the lead guard spot with Jaxson Robinson and Lamont Butler sidelined.

It also should be noted that Andrew Carr continues to look like a shell of himself following his back injury. If he can’t get to what we saw vs. Duke and Florida, Kentucky’s ceiling gets lower.

Trent Noah continues his ascent

Trent Noah has quickly become a fan favorite, and for good reason. After an impressive performance against Tennessee on Tuesday night, he followed that up with another solid outing in Austin tonight.

Injuries forced Noah into the rotation quickly after not seeing much time early in conference play. You would never guess that he has been out of the rotation with the confidence he is playing with.

He has landed the nickname “Mountain Mamba.” Well, at this rate, we could be seeing some big moments from the Harlan County kid in March.

Amari Williams dominates

Early in the year, Amari Williams seemed to be hit or miss in how we would play in his role in Mark Pope’s unique offense. Now, with a month left in the season, there is an argument to be made that he might be the most versatile big man in the SEC.

He proved that again tonight as he dominated on both ends of the floor.

It is not every day we see a 7-foot center bringing the ball up the floor. One certainly doesn’t typically see one leading the team in assists on a regular basis. That is the case for Williams.

Kentucky has a chance to make a run this March, and Williams will be a key piece if that is to happen.

Looks like all will be okay

The Cats had a real chance to lay an egg on the road tonight with all of the injuries. With them being safely in the tournament, it would be easy to pack it in and just prepare for March.

Well, tonight showed that there are still plenty of wins to be had remaining on this schedule, no matter when Butler and Robinson return.

It’s not always going to be easy, but I love the chance these guys give the team a chance each night.

Now, let’s discuss the game.