Stats, highlights and box score of Kentucky basketball's huge road win at Mississippi State

In a gripping SEC showdown, the Kentucky Wildcats showcased their prowess on the road, defeating the Mississippi State Bulldogs in Starkville with a final score of 95-90. The game was defined by Kentucky's superior shooting percentages and strategic gameplay, which ultimately led them to victory despite a strong comeback attempt by the Bulldogs.

First Half Highlights:
Kentucky started strong, with Jaxson Robinson leading the charge, sinking 7 out of 10 three-pointers and finishing the half with a personal tally of 20 points. The Wildcats' offensive efficiency was finally present on the road as they shot an impressive 55.7% from the field, including 50% from beyond the arc. Mississippi State kept it close and did all they could do to withstand the barrage of offense the Cats were unleashing.

Second Half Surge:
The Bulldogs made a significant push in the second half, thanks to Cameron Matthews, who was a force inside, grabbing 10 rebounds and contributing 19 points, including critical steals that cut the big lead down to a tie game. Mississippi State's defense tightened, forcing Kentucky into 13 turnovers, which they converted into 20 points. However, Kentucky's balanced scoring from their starters, particularly from Otega Oweh with 15 points and 8 rebounds, kept them ahead.

Key Performances:
Jaxson Robinson of Kentucky was the standout with 27 points, demonstrating his shooting range.
Cameron Matthews for Mississippi State was a double-double threat, nearly single-handedly rallying his team with his defensive and offensive plays.
Andrew Carr provided a solid all-around game for Kentucky, contributing 13 points and 6 rebounds.

While Mississippi State managed to close the gap in the second half, Kentucky’s consistent performance from the field and at the free-throw line proved too much. The Wildcats' ability to maintain their shooting touch and manage the game's pace was crucial in securing the Cats first true road win, keeping their SEC campaign strong at 2-1.

Kentucky Wildcats:

Andrew Carr: 13 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 fouls
Amari Williams: 10 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 fouls, 2 blocks, 5 turnovers
Otega Oweh: 15 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, 2 fouls, 4 turnovers
Jaxson Robinson: 27 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 fouls, 2 turnovers
Lamont Butler: 10 points, 1 rebound, 8 assists, 1 steal, 2 fouls
Ansley Almonor: 11 points, 1 rebound, 1 foul, 1 turnover
Brandon Garrison: 3 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 fouls
Travis Perry: 3 points, 1 rebound, 3 fouls
Koby Brea: 3 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist

Mississippi State Bulldogs:

RJ Melendez: 14 points, 4 rebounds, 1 foul
Cameron Matthews: 19 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 6 steals, 1 foul, 2 turnovers
Michael Nwoko: 10 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 blocks, 4 fouls, 1 turnover
Claudell Harris Jr.: 13 points, 2 rebounds, 1 steal, 1 foul, 1 turnover
Josh Hubbard: 15 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 4 fouls, 2 turnovers
KeShawn Murphy: 8 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal
Shawn Jones Jr.: 3 points, 3 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals
Riley Kugel: 8 points, 1 block, 2 fouls

Overall Team Stats:

Field Goal %: Kentucky 55.7% - Mississippi State 45.1%
Three Point %: Kentucky 50.0% - Mississippi State 30.0%
Free Throw %: Kentucky 57.9% - Mississippi State 77.8%
Rebounds: Kentucky 41 - Mississippi State 33
Assists: Kentucky 21 - Mississippi State 13
Steals: Kentucky 3 - Mississippi State 9
Blocks: Kentucky 2 - Mississippi State 6
Turnovers: Kentucky 13 - Mississippi State 6
Points Off Turnovers: Kentucky 7 - Mississippi State 20
Fast Break Points: Kentucky 13 - Mississippi State 16
Points in Paint: Kentucky 28 - Mississippi State 34
Largest Lead: Kentucky 14 - Mississippi State 6