LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) John Calipari's enthusiasm and optimism about his Kentucky squad comes from having his most experienced Wildcats roster in a while.

Yes, Calipari once again landed a couple of heralded freshman recruits. But they'll be outnumbered by a veteran core comprised of several holdovers and a handful of transfers. All of them will be counted on to help No. 10 Kentucky bounce back from its worst finish in nearly a century.

The Wildcats were 9-16 last season -- a year Calipari won't bother reflecting on.