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Kentucky basketball in the latest AP Poll: Men’s and Women’s teams heading in opposite directions

The Lady Cats jump up while the men drop down. See where both teams are ranked heading into a pivotal week of basketball.
ByDrew Holbrook|
Mar 1, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Lamont Butler (1) goes to the basket against Auburn Tigers forward Chris Moore (5) during the second half at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images
Mar 1, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Lamont Butler (1) goes to the basket against Auburn Tigers forward Chris Moore (5) during the second half at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images | Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

The latest AP Top 25 polls are out, and both Kentucky basketball programs—men’s and women’s—remain in the national conversation as the regular season winds down. Let’s break down where each team stands and what it means moving forward.

Kentucky Men’s Basketball: Holding Firm in the Rankings

Despite a tough 94-78 loss to No. 1 Auburn, the Kentucky men’s team remains ranked, coming in at No. 19 this week. The Wildcats sit at 19-10 overall, with a resume that continues to generate debate among analysts and bracketologists.

AP Poll Men’s Top 5:

  1. Purdue (27-3)
  2. Houston (26-3)
  3. UConn (25-3)
  4. Arizona (24-4)
  5. Tennessee (23-6)

The loss to Auburn showcased Kentucky basketball's love for a good turnover, as they finished with 18 on the evening. With just a few games left before the SEC Tournament, the Wildcats will need to solidify their resume and push for a higher seed in March Madness.

For the full poll click here

Kentucky Women’s Basketball: Staying in the Top 15

On the women’s side, Kentucky checks in at No. 12 in this week’s AP Poll. The Wildcats (22-6) suffered a hard-fought 78-66 loss to No. 5 South Carolina but remain in a strong position heading into tournament season.

AP Poll Women’s Top 5:

  1. South Carolina (28-0)
  2. Iowa (26-3)
  3. Ohio State (25-4)
  4. UCLA (24-5)
  5. Stanford (24-5)

For the full poll, click here

The Wildcats’ balanced scoring attack has kept them competitive all season, and despite the recent loss, they remain in contention for a solid NCAA Tournament seeding. With SEC play wrapping up, Kentucky has the opportunity to make a statement heading into the postseason.

Looking Ahead

For both programs, the final stretch of the season is all about seeding and momentum. The men’s team will look to bounce back from their loss to Auburn, while the women’s squad aims to maintain their place among the nation’s elite. With March right around the corner, Kentucky basketball remains a program to watch on both fronts.