Kentucky basketball vs Louisville matchup history: Who won the last time they played?

The Kentucky Wildcats delivered a commanding performance against their in-state rivals, the Louisville Cardinals, securing a 95-76 victory at the Yum Center in 2023. From start to finish, Kentucky asserted its dominance, showcasing an efficient offense and stifling defense that left little doubt about the outcome.

The Wildcats stormed out to a 53-33 halftime lead, propelled by Antonio Reeves' offensive explosion. Reeves led all scorers with 30 points, shooting an impressive 10-of-16 from the field and 4-of-5 from beyond the arc. His efficient scoring was complemented by Tre Mitchell, who posted a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds, and Justin Edwards, who added 13 points and seven boards in one of his best games as a Cat.

Kentucky's shooting efficiency was the key to their victory, as the Wildcats shot 51% from the field and a blistering 48% from three-point range over all. Louisville, on the other hand, struggled to find their rhythm from deep, converting just 4-of-17 attempts for a paltry 23%.

Defensively, Kentucky excelled, recording eight blocks and nine steals while forcing 13 Louisville turnovers. Although the Cardinals managed to match Kentucky in rebounds (37-35), they couldn't overcome their inefficiency from the field. Skyy Clark was a bright spot for Louisville, scoring 20 points and dishing out five assists, but he received little support from his teammates.

Louisville’s Brandon Huntley-Hatfield contributed a solid 16-point, 11-rebound performance, but it wasn’t enough to stem Kentucky’s relentless offensive assault. The Wildcats outscored Louisville 40-26 in the paint and turned turnovers into 19 points, compared to the Cardinals’ 13.

The victory marked yet another strong showing for Kentucky in the historic rivalry, as the Wildcats showcased why they remain a force to be reckoned with.

Of course both teams have a different coaching staff with Kenny Payne following John Calipari to Arkansas; and both rosters look totally different. This will mark the first governor's cup game in the coaching matchup of Mark Pope and Pat Kelsey. Who walks out the victor?