Kentucky women’s basketball fans have received exciting news as the Wildcats have confirmed their opponent for this year’s ACC/SEC Challenge. Scheduled for December 5, the Wildcats will face off against North Carolina in Chapel Hill, with UK head coach Kenny Brooks set to go head-to-head with UNC head coach Courtney Banghart for the 13th time since 2019. Indeed, it promises to be a showdown worth watching.
The second annual ACC/SEC Challenge offers thrilling matchups and the highly-anticipated reunion of familiar faces. In addition, other noteworthy matchups to look out for include Oklahoma at Louisville and Duke at South Carolina, with a packed schedule on December 4 and 5.
But what background information is available for the Wildcats’ upcoming opponent? North Carolina finished in eighth place in the highly competitive ACC last season, concluding with an impressive overall record of 20-13 (11-7 ACC). They even reached the Round of 32 in the 2024 NCAA Tournament before succumbing to the eventual national champion Gamecocks.
However, North Carolina has experienced some significant roster changes recently. Notably, their leading scorer Deja Kelly transferred to Oregon, and the team has also seen other players depart through the transfer portal. However, they have not fallen short in terms of new additions, with the signings of new transfer players and a trio of top-70 recruits for the class of 2024. It appears that North Carolina is gearing up to give the Wildcats a challenge.
On the other hand, the Wildcats have been making their own preparations for the upcoming season. With just two returning players from last year’s roster, and a new head coach in Kenny Brooks, there is a great deal of anticipation and excitement surrounding the team. Additionally, graduate transfer point guard Georgia Amoore has high expectations following her outstanding performance with Virginia Tech last season.
The 2024 signing class has also brought in a pool of talent, including impact transfers and a promising group of recruits. It is evident that the Wildcats are preparing for a season filled with action and excitement.
As fans eagerly await the announcement of the schedule, one thing is certain – the matchup between Kentucky and North Carolina is destined to be an unforgettable event. Furthermore, with rivalry games against Louisville and Purdue also on the horizon, the upcoming season is shaping up to be an exhilarating one for Kentucky women’s basketball.
Therefore, be sure to mark your calendars and prepare to cheer on the Wildcats as they begin an exciting journey in the upcoming ACC/SEC Challenge!