2019 NCAA Regional Semi-Final: Houston vs Kentucky Preview and Prediction

Biggest matchup

Corey Davis Jr. vs. Tyler Herro. Tyler Herro was the hero in Kentucky’s win last weekend over Wofford, completely handling Wofford’s star Fletcher Magee, holding him to 0-of-12 shooting from 3. Davis presents a different challenge, and Kentucky could decide to rotate defenders on Houston’s leading scorer. Herro also led Kentucky in 3-pointers made this season. If PJ Washington can’t play, Herro needs to have a good shooting night for the Wildcats.

Spacing and shot selection will be key for the Cats

The Cougars lead the nation in defensive shooting percentage, with opponents hitting just 36.6 percent of their shots against the Cougars. Kentucky shot 25.9 percent from 3-point range in the first weekend. With or without PJ Washington if Kentucky doesn’t shoot the ball well they will not win this game.

Keys to the Game

Rebounding

It is imperative that the Wildcats win the rebounding battle and get the ball out in transition. Reid Travis will be a key player in this game. He will need to match Brooks for the Cats to be successful.

The Cougars have to hit from deep 

The common thread in all of the Cougars losses has been poor shooting from three-point range and that will be their biggest threat in this game. If they shoot well, they win.

Prediction

With or without PJ Washington I think the Cats perimeter defense wins them this game, in a close one.

Wildcats 67  Cougars 65