"Stone Cold Killer": Lamont Butler stuns Louisville with epic game, Pat Kelsey responds

In a game already steeped in history and passion, Lamont Butler delivered a performance that will be talked about for years to come. The Kentucky guard was unstoppable, dropping 33 points in Kentucky’s 93-85 victory over Louisville. It was the second-highest scoring performance in the history of this heated rivalry, just one point shy of Derrick Miller’s record-setting 34-point game in 1988.

Butler’s game was nothing short of magnificent after not knowing for sure he would be able to play. The senior guard shot a perfect 10-for-10 from the field, including a lights-out 6-for-6 from beyond the arc. He added seven made free throws on 12 attempts, if he had just made a few more, he could have had the record. His flawless shooting not only fueled Kentucky’s offense but also left Louisville scrambling for answers.

Louisville head coach Pat Kelsey couldn’t hold back his admiration for Butler, even as his team fell short. “Lamont Butler was magnificent. That kid lives in my nightmares. I played against him when he was at San Diego State… He’s a warrior, a winner. A stone-cold killer,” Kelsey said postgame. High praise from a rival coach speaks volumes about Butler’s impact on the court.

Mark Pope, Kentucky’s head coach, was even more effusive in his assessment. “Lamont Butler just gave us one of the all-time greatest performances in the history of this special game. ALL-TIME,” Pope declared.

Butler’s brilliance went beyond the stat sheet. His poise under pressure, ability to hit big shots, and command of the game elevated Kentucky when it mattered most. Whether it was draining a three to stretch the lead or driving the lane to draw contact, Butler’s performance energized the Wildcats and Rupp Arena. Every time Louisville made a run to get it close, it was Butler that helped shut the door on the Cards.

As Kentucky fans revel in another rivalry win, they’ll remember Lamont Butler’s name as one that belongs in the annals of Wildcat history, even though it will be the only one of these he gets to play in. On a night when Kentucky needed a star, Butler delivered a masterpiece.