The Cats didn't just win in Starkville; they got what this team was missing. They took to the road and took a top 20 team's best shot and won. The Cats showcased why they are considered one of the top teams in college basketball this season. Against a tough Mississippi State Bulldogs squad, Kentucky displayed an offensive masterclass, shooting 55.7% from the field and 50% from three-point range, led by Jaxson Robinson's 27-point performance.
Otega Oweh and Andrew Carr complemented Robinson's scoring with 15 and 13 points respectively, while Amari Williams was a force on the boards with 12 rebounds, proving that Kentucky's depth is not just in scoring but also in rebounding and defense. Lamont Butler dished out eight assists, which is vital for this team on the road.
The Bulldogs made a valiant effort, with Cameron Matthews putting up a double-double with 19 points and 10 rebounds, but it wasn't enough to close the gap created by Kentucky's superior shooting. Despite Mississippi State making a great clip at the line, 77.8%, but their 30% from three-point range couldn't keep pace with the Wildcats' sharpshooting. They needed a few more of those three's to go in to ruin the Cats night.
Kentucky turned defense into offense, capitalizing on turnovers for 7 points, but where they truly shined was in their control over the game's pace. The Wildcats out-assisted the Bulldogs 21 to 13, demonstrating a level of ball movement and playmaking that has been the hallmark of their season.
This wasn't just a win; when Kentucky shows up they can thrive on the road, in a hostile environment, against a team in the thick of SEC competition. With this victory, Kentucky not only bolsters their resume for the NCAA tournament and seeding; but also sends a clear message to the rest of the league. Let's see what you had to say:
Hey Matt……Williams had 12 rebounds tonight and leads the team THIS SEASON in rebounds….at 8 per game. NO ONE is OSCAR…..but that comment is ridiculous…….so you WANT TO BLOCK ME NOW?? HA HA….@KySportsRadio @ryanlemond https://t.co/5FCRWZc9jp
— alan cutler (@cutler18) January 12, 2025
I said it before I am a big Almonor fan.
— Lonnie Rowe (@coachrowe20) January 12, 2025
Scoring 95 points against a Chris Jans coached team seems unfathomable.
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) January 12, 2025
A next level offensive performance tonight from Kentucky in Starkville. https://t.co/Am8r8SHxbU
Lamont Butler is Kentucky's best player and he proved that tonight clutch shooting and most importantly playing lock down defense on key possessions#BBN he always seems so poised and under control
— Jordan Coleman (@JordansTrueBlue) January 12, 2025
The build-up to the locker room celebration…
— Jack Pilgrim (@JackPilgrimKSR) January 12, 2025
This team is a blast. https://t.co/5zuFIdhjzZ pic.twitter.com/K3P4O30cLe
Kentucky has FOUR Quad 1A wins this season:
— College Basketball Report (@CBKReport) January 12, 2025
No. 4 Duke (N)
No. 8 Florida (H)
No. 14 Mississippi State (A)
No. 18 Gonzaga (N)
More than any team in the country. pic.twitter.com/WrO1qrNO63
It doesn't matter how good Mississippi State is, they can't beat Alabama in football or Kentucky in basketball. They lose to the name on the jersey. Still can have a great season, though. This team is really good. Just don't end up in Kentucky's bracket. #HailState
— Mark Hester (@mhester9777) January 12, 2025
College Basketball> NFL Playoffs
— Sad Country Music (@RealCntryOutlaw) January 12, 2025
If you disagree, just tune into Kentucky Vs Mississippi State or Alabama Vs Texas A&M, you’re welcome.
Kentucky men’s basketball now has wins over the teams that began Saturday ranked No. 2, No. 5, No. 10 & No. 12 in the NET Rankings.
— Mark Story (@markcstory) January 12, 2025
I love our coach, and I love Kentucky basketball🔥 https://t.co/bVT01ugrLD
— MaCoy🛸 (@MaCoyMatty) January 12, 2025