The Kentucky Wildcats weathered multiple Tennessee comebacks to pull off a massive 78-73 victory on the road. From a hot start to late-game chaos, the Wildcats found a way to grind out a crucial SEC win, proving they can handle pressure in crunch time.
Fast Start and First-Half Momentum Shifts
Cats Controls Early, But Vols Respond
Kentucky came out firing, building an early 8-point lead, controlling tempo, and knocking down shots at an efficient rate. But just as it looked like they would head into halftime with control, Tennessee erupted on an 11-0 run to take a 33-30 lead into the break.
The big story was Zeigler twisting his knee and heading directly to the locker room. However, he would return at the start of the second half.
Wildcats Regain Control in the Second Half
11-Point Lead Sets the Tone
Kentucky came out of halftime refocused, reclaiming the lead and stretching it to as many as 11 points. Jaxson Robinson led the way with 17 points, drilling four three-pointers to spark the offense.
Koby Brea was a perfect 5-for-5 from the field, finishing with 18 points, while Otega Oweh added 14 points with a strong performance attacking the rim.
Tennessee Rallies Late, Chaos Ensues
With just under four minutes remaining, Kentucky held a seemingly comfortable 71-63 lead. But then, the unthinkable happened:
- A costly turnover by Chandler led to a Tennessee dunk.
- Almonor misfired on a pass, resulting in a huge three-pointer for Tennessee—suddenly, it was 71-68.
- A pair of clutch Brea free throws extended the lead back to five.
- Oweh was whistled for an offensive foul, giving Tennessee another chance.
With 28 seconds to go, Tennessee had multiple offensive rebounds, leading to a Chaz Lanier three-pointer, cutting the lead to just one point (74-73).
Oweh Seals the Game at the Line
Otega and Jaxson Deliver in the Clutch
With the pressure mounting, Oweh calmly sank two critical free throws, giving Kentucky a three-point cushion. Tennessee had a final look, but Jordan Gainey’s three-pointer airballed under heavy pressure.
Oweh stepped up again, icing the game with two more free throws to secure the 78-73 victory.
Kentucky vs. Tennessee – By the Numbers
Team Stats Breakdown
Field Goals: Kentucky 25-50 (50.0%), Tennessee 25-72 (34.7%)
Three-Pointers: Kentucky 12-24 (50.0%), Tennessee 11-45 (24.4%)
Free Throws: Kentucky 16-24 (66.7%), Tennessee 12-17 (70.6%)
Total Rebounds: Kentucky 39, Tennessee 42
Offensive Rebounds: Kentucky 8, Tennessee 19
Defensive Rebounds: Kentucky 31, Tennessee 23
Assists: Kentucky 14, Tennessee 14
Turnovers: Kentucky 13, Tennessee 5
Steals: Kentucky 3, Tennessee 8
Blocks: Kentucky 3, Tennessee 4
Points Off Turnovers: Kentucky 5, Tennessee 13
Fast Break Points: Kentucky 5, Tennessee 7
Points in the Paint: Kentucky 20, Tennessee 24
Fouls: Kentucky 17, Tennessee 18
Largest Lead: Kentucky 11, Tennessee 3
Star Player Performances
Starters
- Jaxson Robinson: 17 PTS, 6-16 FG, 4-9 3PT, 4 REB
- Koby Brea: 18 PTS, 5-5 FG, 3-3 3PT, 5-7 FT
- Otega Oweh: 14 PTS, 4-11 FG, 6-9 FT, 6 REB
- Ansley Almonor: 12 PTS, 4-7 3PT, 3 AST
- Amari Williams: 10 PTS, 15 REB, 4 AST
Key Bench Contributions
- Trent Noah: 5 PTS, 2-2 FG
- Collin Chandler: 0 PTS, 2 AST
Big time minutes from the bench in this one, and we go over why Pope has to trust his bench even more here.
What This Win Means for Kentucky
This was a statement victory for the Wildcats, who showed resilience in the face of adversity. Despite 19 offensive rebounds from Tennessee, Kentucky’s hot shooting (50% FG, 50% 3PT) and late-game composure made the difference.
Mark Pope’s team continues to build momentum in SEC play, proving they can handle pressure-packed moments. With this win, Kentucky strengthens its NCAA Tournament résumé and stays in the hunt for an SEC Championship.
What’s Next for the Wildcats?
Kentucky will look to carry this momentum into Saturday as Coach Cal comes to town.