UK escapes NKU in NCAA opener 79-70

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Kentucky never distanced itself from Northern Kentucky in Indianapolis.  UK held off a late run by the Norse for the 79-70 win.

De’Aaron Fox had a team-high 19 points.  Isaiah Briscoe finished with 17 points, 8 rebounds.  Bam Adebayo’s double-double helped the Cats claim victory as well.  Bam finished with 15 points, 18 boards.

Malik Monk was once again off, but managed to tally 12 points on 3-of-11 shooting and 6-of-7 from the free throw line.

NKU was led by Lavone Holland II’s game-high 22 points.  Carson Williams finished with 21 points, 9 rebounds.

The Cats advance to play Wichita State Sunday in Indy.