Associate commissioner for SEC admits they "missed the mark" with Kentucky basketball vs Florida

Kentucky basketball and Florida basketball have long shared a storied rivalry, delivering some of the most competitive and entertaining games in SEC history. However, with the expansion of the SEC to include Texas and Oklahoma, scheduling changes mean that the Wildcats and Gators will face off just once this season—a tough pill to swallow for fans who relish their battles.

The conference’s new scheduling model assigns each team two permanent opponents they will play twice every year. For Kentucky, those rivals are Tennessee and Vanderbilt. For Florida, the designated foes are Georgia and South Carolina. These selections were made through a league-wide vote to preserve key rivalries and maintain geographic balance. Additionally, teams have one discretionary two-play opponent that rotates based on the SEC scheduling committee's discretion, leaving the possibility of more frequent Kentucky-Florida matchups in the future. SEC official Garth Glassman said "We’ve heard from a few other Gator fans that we may have missed the mark with this season’s men’s basketball schedule given the significance of the Florida vs. Kentucky rivalry."

If Saturday’s game—a thrilling 106-100 Kentucky victory—is any indication, the SEC may want to reconsider making this matchup an annual two-play rivalry. The contest had everything: high stakes, standout individual performances, and lead changes that kept fans on the edge of their seats. It was a masterpiece of offensive firepower, with Kentucky executing three separate 10-0 (one a 16-0) runs and Florida relentlessly attacking the glass to stay in the game.

For Kentucky, Koby Brea, and for Florida, Alijah Martin both showed incredible scoring prowess and their trademark grit. Neither team would quit and kept battling back repeatedly to keep the game within reach. It was the kind of game that showcased the best of SEC basketball, and fans were left wondering why they won’t see a rematch this season; unless they play in the SEC or NCAA tourney's.

The rivalry between Kentucky and Florida transcends the court. Both programs have a rich history of success, fierce fan bases, and coaches who understand the importance of these games. Matt Walsh is still talked about on the message boards.

As the SEC navigates the complexities of a larger conference, it’s clear that some rivalries will be impacted by scheduling constraints. While Tennessee and Vanderbilt are logical permanent rivals for Kentucky, and Georgia and South Carolina fit Florida’s profile, the excitement and history of Kentucky-Florida games make a strong case for more frequent encounters.

For now, fans will have to savor the single matchup, which was maybe the game of the year. If Saturday’s game is a preview of what this rivalry can deliver, it’s one that deserves the spotlight more often.