The 2026-27 Kentucky basketball season has officially begun, and the Wildcats opened things up with a dominant win over Manhattan, 85-57. It wasn't a perfect game, but there was a lot to enjoy about their first outing, and plenty to build on.
Milan Momcilovic's first game as a Wildcat was a big one. He made six three-pointers on the way to 24 points to lead the team. Alex Wilkins also had a notable night, scoring 11 points and adding an incredible 7 steals. Zoom Diallo was also in double figures with 12 points.
Everyone got in on the act, and showed flashes of what they could be. Braydon Hawthorne did a bit of everything. Malachi Moreno nearly had a double-double. Mason Williams had 7 points and 5 assists.
It was a good win, with plenty to like,
and after the game fans took to social media to talk about things. Here are some of the best posts from X after the final buzzer sounded.
Kentucky's first game is in the books
It sure is good to be back. 👍 pic.twitter.com/ay6prVrz7L
— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) November 4, 2026
Alex Wilkins setting records
Alex Wilkins’ 7 steals is the most ever by a Kentucky player in his debut. One away from the school record.
— Tres Terrell (@TerrellTres) November 4, 2026
Alex Wilkins with 11-5 and 7 steals tonight in his Kentucky debut.
— Jabroni GM (@JabroniGM) November 4, 2026
World not ready for this kid yet
Alex Wilkins is so good
— DeCourcy Ward (@ohsnapholdup) November 4, 2026
Milan Momcilovic impresses
Some players miss a three and lose their confidence to shoot. When Milan Momcilovic misses one, it feels like a glitch and the next make doesn’t take long to happen.
— Will (@_willmanzi) November 4, 2026
Milan Momcilovic is firmly the best player on this team. Just an insane weapon to have on offense.
— Nolan Fleming (@nolanuky27) November 4, 2026
Milan Momcilovic congratulations brother on your national POTY
— BKS Sports (@BKSecretsports) November 4, 2026
Celebrating win No. 1
Things were a little rocky at first, but the Cats came away with the win! Scoring balance was great, perimeter shooting was excellent, and the defense was on point! It's only game one & plenty to work on, but tonight was a good start. #BBN #WeAreUK
— Jerrod Baker (@JerrodBaker1) November 4, 2026
Brandon and Frank wanting to dunk everything makes me smile. McBride loves the corner 3. #BBN
— Doctor of Coding Thinkology (@bradcundiff) November 4, 2026
I like this team a lot. #BBN
— Batt Jones (@battjonesuk) November 4, 2026
13 turnovers is only blemish on a otherwise really good opener. #BBN
— Doctor of Coding Thinkology (@bradcundiff) November 4, 2026
Good win Cats 🏀 #BBN
— ً (@1shaqmissile) November 4, 2026
This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Social media reacts to Kentucky's win over Manhattan
