The University of Kentucky women’s basketball program opened its 2026‑27 campaign with a resounding 85‑42 triumph over in‑state opponent Morehead State on the court of Memorial Coliseum. The Wildcats set the tone early, scoring the first 13 points of the game and never looking back.
Early dominance
Four different Wildcats contributed to the opening burst, but it was senior guard Clara Strack who led the charge. She poured in half of Kentucky’s 18 points in the first quarter, helping the team build an 18‑4 lead by the end of the period.
Second quarter surge
Freshman forward “Meezy” O’Neal kept the momentum rolling, adding a pair of baskets to start the second quarter. Seven Wildcats found the basket before halftime, extending the lead to 42‑17. At the break, Strack had accumulated 13 points, while teammate Asja Sivka contributed eight. O’Neal grabbed seven rebounds, and freshman Savvy Swords added six boards.
Closing out the game
The second half belonged entirely to Kentucky. Strack finished with a double‑double—17 points, nine rebounds and three assists—while Sivka, senior forward Dianna Collins and junior guard Maddyn Greenway each posted 12 points. O’Neal and senior guard Emily McDonald added 10 points apiece. Swords capped the night with a game‑high 11 rebounds, underscoring the team’s dominance on the glass.
Looking ahead
Following the opening win, the Wildcats return to Memorial Coliseum on Thursday for a home matchup against Northern Kentucky University at 6:30 p.m. The contest will be streamed live on the SEC Network+. Coach Kenny Brooks praised his squad’s execution and depth, noting that the balanced scoring and strong rebounding effort set a positive foundation for the season.
Fans in Lexington can anticipate more high‑energy performances as the Wildcats aim to contend for the SEC title and a deep run in the NCAA tournament. The early season statement win against Morehead State signals that Kentucky is poised to be a formidable force in women’s college basketball this year.
Original reporting: LEX18 Lexington (local) — read the source article.
