Kentucky rallies past torrid-shooting NKU, 91-73, in exhibition contest at Rupp Arena
(This story was originally published on Nov. 3, 2004) LEXINGTON, Ky. — To most of the 18,824 in attendance, it was just an exhibition game and a chance to see the heralded University of Kentucky recruiting class in action for the first time. But for Northern Kentucky University’s Dave Bezold, it was a dream finally realized. Bezold, entering his first season as NKU’s head coach, made his sideline debut Wednesday night against UK in an exhibition game and watched his Norse drop a 91-73 decision in Rupp Arena. The Wildcats used a 15-0 run in the first half to wipe out a 20-12 deficit and forced 26 NKU turnovers to win the first-ever meeting between the two schools in men’s basketball. For Bezold, who spent the previous 14 years as an assistant coach at NKU, it was an experience he will never forget. “Playing against Kentucky in Rupp Arena, now that’s a tough way to start off as a head coach,” Bezold said with a laugh. “Going up against the most storied college basketball program in histo...