Kentucky handles West Virgina, 71-63, to punch ticket to Sweet 16
By Matt Stevens
March 19, 2011 11:35 a.m.
TAMPA, Fla. — In a rematch of last year’s Elite Eight, No. 4-seed Kentucky slipped past No. 5-seed West Virgina to advance to the Sweet 16.
A loud and sizable pro-Kentucky crowd helped urge John Calipari’s team to the 71-63 win that was sealed when West Virgina’s Jonnie West air-balled a 3-pointer from the baseline with 40 seconds to go.
The Wildcats got a big game from both pf their freshman standouts, especially Brandon Knight. The guard playing in his home state poured in 30 points to lead Kentucky, while his backcourt partner Terrence Jones posted a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds.
Kentucky will face the winner of the Ohio State-George Mason contest to be played tomorrow.
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