Always good to get a road win, as we see across the country, it's damn hard and so many factors to deal with that make it difficult. Realize there were a few poor calls but I've actually thought the SEC officiating has been improved this year--in that you see them letting guys play. No way in hell in the past does that hoop PJ Washington scored with Cats up 1 against a horrific flop NOT get called. I was stunned they didn't blow the whistle on Keldon Johnson's blocked shot late as well--he didn't foul but on the road expecting that whistle.
Saying that, completely understand why Cal was on them hard after the game. The next step for this team is to dominate--and that means taking that 18 pt lead and pushing it to 26....and they did take a step back. Wish they'd really play aggressive/attack when they have a lead but reserved to fact Calipari is never going to let that happen. Thought he showed signs of allowing the offense to go in the Vandy game and while Vandy is a lesser opponent then Mississippi State, it's the style of play that carries over more then opponent. Let them attack when they are up.
Little thing I don't understand late (not just UK games)--if you are up 2 possessions, why not run people off the 3pt line? Don't care how deep-force the 2, if they hit you are up at least a possession (if 5 pt lead) or 2 (if up 6 or more) but everyone retreats, hand down and allows the 3. It's beyond frustrating to not see teams use their offensive advantage for defense.
UK related--situational wise, after Keldon blocked and secured the ball/passes to Hagans--he has to realize he had Herro next to him and get ball to him. Always want the best FT shooter on the team with ball late. Realize Hagans is a warrior and competitive and he hit the 1 shot-but pushing things to improve, little details have to become mastered and as Cal said, you lose now, got games left, lose next month, it's all over. Tighten this stuff up and this team takes a huge step.