The Kentucky Wildcats will close out their non‑conference schedule on November 27 with a clash against the Wichita State Shockers at Rupp Arena. The game marks the second straight year the two programs have met in the NCAA Tournament, setting the stage for another high‑profile early‑season test.
A History of Close Encounters
The rivalry dates back to the 2014 tournament, when Kentucky survived a 78‑76 thriller after Fred VanVleet’s potential game‑winner rimmed out. Two years later, the Wildcats edged Wichita State 65‑62, with Bam Adebayo’s decisive block sealing the win. Both contests showcased the competitive balance between a traditional powerhouse and a program that has consistently punched above its weight.
Wichita State brings a storied résumé to the matchup. The Shockers have reached the Final Four twice, most recently in 2013, and captured an NIT championship. Their track record of producing NBA talent — highlighted by players such as Fred VanVleet and Ron Baker — adds a layer of intrigue to every encounter.
Kentucky’s non‑conference slate is deliberately stacked with marquee opponents. In addition to the Wichita State rematch, the Wildcats will face Kansas in the State Farm Champions Classic, Virginia in the ACC/SEC Challenge, and North Carolina in the CBS Sports Classic. Other scheduled foes include Manhattan, James Madison, Northern Arizona, Grambling State, Appalachian State, Bryant, Sacred Heart, Gardner Webb, Indiana, Louisville, and a perennial in‑state rivalry game against Louisville.
What to Watch
The upcoming game offers a chance to see how the Wildcats’ fresh roster meshes with a Shockers team that continues to evolve under its coaching staff. Storylines will revolve around Kentucky’s incoming freshmen, the defensive schemes that helped stifle Wichita State in 2017, and the potential for another tight finish that could echo the drama of past meetings.