# Prediction: Who are the Minnesota State Mavericks, Kentucky basketball's exhibition opponent tonight **UK facing MSU in exhibition opener**
Kentucky will play an exhibition basketball game against Minnesota State on Friday night at Rupp Arena.
The Mavericks are a Division II school that plays in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).
**MSU Mavericks basketball history**MSU went 13-12 last season and finished fifth in the NSIC.
The Mavericks have won two NSIC championships (2010, 2011) and have made four NCAA Tournament appearances (2010, 2011, 2014, 2017).
MSU is led by senior guard Malik Willingham, who averaged 17.2 points per game last season.
**Kentucky faces tough test**Kentucky is a heavy favorite against MSU, but the Mavericks should provide a good test for the Wildcats.
MSU is a well-coached team that plays hard and together.
The Mavericks will also be motivated to play well against Kentucky, which is one of the most storied programs in college basketball.
**How to watch the game**The game will be televised on SEC Network+ and ESPN+
Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. ET.
