Newcomer Shantia Owens grabbed a game-high nine rebounds.

(November 8, 1998) — The University of Kentucky women’s basketball team defeated Slovakia,79-45, in its first exhibition game of the year in Memorial Coliseum. Juniorguard Tiffany Wait led all scorers with 17 points while senior Jaye Barnesadded 11. Newcomer Shantia Owens grabbed a game-high nine reboundsfor the Wildcats and scored eight points and sophomore Laura Meadowsdished out five assists and recorded three blocks. “I thought we did a lot ofgood things today and I felt we got some good looks at our newcomers,”UK Coach Bernadette Mattox said. “I was also pleased with our intensity ondefense. We’ve just got to come out game in and game out and play hardlike that, especially in this conference.” UK’s defense held the Slovakians toonly 11 baskets during the game and forced 39 turnovers and recorded 16steals. The Wildcats scored 46 points off Slovakia’s turnovers.

Kentucky will play host to its second exhibition game on Friday, Nov. 13 at7 p.m. versus Mississippi AAU in Memorial Coliseum. Admission is free.