Gillispie: U of L presents big challenge

Louisville may have slipped from a pre-season top 5 ranking to No. 18. And if Kentucky wins at Louisville on Sunday, the Cardinals may drop out of the rankings.

Yet, UK Coach Billy Gillispie spoke of U of L as a formidable opponent.

Speaking of Louisville’s “outstanding” half-court defense, Gillispie said, “That’s why they were a pre-season No. 3 team and why they’re playing to that ranking.”

More than once, Gillispie noted Louisville’s experience and depth of talent.

“They can always put five guys out there you have to guard,” the UK coach said. “That sounds simple. But not too many people do that.”

Of his own team, Gillispie noted UK’s relative lack of experience and the team’s only previous game on an opponent’s court. No. 1 North Carolina roared to an early lead and went on to beat Kentucky 77-58 on Nov. 18.

“We have to make major steps forward,” he said. “Last time on the road we had a horrific start. We can’t do that again. . . . The most scary part of an inexperienced team is taking them on the road.”

With five of UK’s next seven games on the road, Gillispie said UK will need to be improved.

“I think we’ll be very, very, very well prepared,” he said.

Gillispie dismissed the suggestion that a loss in its last game will give Louisville added incentive to play well against Kentucky.

“I’d say they’ll give their best shot because that’s what they normally do,” he said.

In response to other questions, Gillispie said that:

– Ramon Harris is doing better and should be expected to play at Louisville. Harris has missed five games and played a total of 15 minutes in two other games since he collided head to head with teammate Michael Porter when UK played Lamar on Dec. 3.

– Freshman Darius Miller is practicing normally. Miller’s father noted his son’s frustration earlier in the week.