[DALE]

Nice little write up in today's Courier Journal about Landon last night.

Central Michigan (3-9) hoped to replicate Rupp Arena stunners like VMI, Gardner-Webb and San Diego. The Chippewas led 13-4 and 15-6, but it was too much UK defense, too much Jodie Meeks (23 points) and too much Landon Slone.

When Central Michigan coach Ernie Ziegler read the scouting report on the Wildcats, it's doubtful that Slone was mentioned. Most of the pregame buzz surrounded DeAndre Liggins making his first start. But Slone, a considerably less-heralded fellow freshman, upstaged him.

Slone tied his career high with eights points -- all in the first half -- and helped provide the hustle that helped the Wildcats rally.

"He contributed a lot," Meeks said. "We were out of sync a little bit in the first half early. But he came in and gave us a great spark off the bench, playing defense and hitting a couple of shots for us. I'm proud of him for that."

During UK's 76-69 victory over Florida Atlantic on Saturday, Slone saw a season-high 25 minutes.

He played one minute less last night with a bigger role. With UK down 15-6, Slone scored five straight points. The Paintsville, Ky., native also had a three-pointer during the 23-4 run and led UK with five first-half rebounds.

When he briefly left the game halfway through the first half, Slone received a hearty ovation from the crowd.

He finished the game 3-of-5 shooting after making 1 of 5 on Saturday.

"It was great," he said. "I felt a lot more like myself. I felt a lot more comfortable not only with my shot but with my game overall. My high school coach and Coach Gillispie always say that your defense will lead to your offense."

Added Gillispie: "He was the best guy at pressuring the ball and making some extra-effort plays. He got us going a little bit, and they started missing."