Fri Mar 21 21:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Troy Trojans Look to Upset Kentucky, Inspired by Past NCAA Tournament Upset

**Milwaukee, WI** – One year ago, Oakland guard Jack Gohlke’s confident prediction of a stunning upset over Kentucky in the NCAA Tournament became reality. Now, the Troy Trojans are using Gohlke’s 32-point performance as inspiration as they prepare to face a similarly seeded Kentucky team in the first round of this year’s tournament.

While acknowledging the differences between last year’s team and this year’s – including a new coach for Kentucky, Mark Pope, replacing John Calipari – Troy players and coaches are drawing motivation from past upsets. Coach Scott Cross showed his team footage of previous lower-seeded teams pulling off victories, emphasizing the importance of aggressive play and unwavering confidence.

Troy players insist they aren’t trying to replicate Gohlke’s individual performance, but rather focusing on their own team strategy and aiming for a collective win. Forward Thomas Dowd stated that the team’s focus is on trusting their game plan and playing with confidence, rather than trying to recreate history. Guard Myles Rigsby added that past upsets serve as “blueprints,” offering insights into successful strategies.

Despite the inspirational narrative, Troy understands the challenge ahead. They are prepared for a tough matchup, emphasizing that no victory will be easily gifted. Their aim is to leave everything on the court, regardless of the outcome. The Trojans’ game plan focuses on their strengths: forcing turnovers, securing offensive rebounds, and executing their own brand of basketball. The upcoming matchup promises a compelling David-versus-Goliath encounter.

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