In a game defined by explosive runs, Kentucky outlasted Florida, 106-100, in an intense SEC opener at Rupp Arena. The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams exchanging momentum swings throughout, but it was the Wildcats who ultimately held their ground and secured the win.
Florida dominated the early stages, leading Kentucky for the first 12 minutes. The Gators built their advantage through relentless second-chance points, grabbing 15 offensive rebounds and converting them into 31 points. However, Kentucky responded with an electrifying 16-0 run, powered by Otega Oweh, who scored 10 points during the stretch. This burst gave the Wildcats a 21-3 advantage, and they finished the first half on a 12-2 run, taking a 10-point lead into the break.
The second half saw more back-and-forth action. Florida came out hot, going on a 9-0 run to cut the Kentucky lead to just one point. But Kentucky quickly countered with a 10-0 run, highlighted by Koby Brea’s three consecutive three-pointers, which pushed the lead to nine. Despite a late 7-0 run by Florida, Lamont Butler sealed the game for the Wildcats, scoring five straight points to give Kentucky a comfortable cushion.
Brea was a standout for Kentucky, setting a career-high with seven three-pointers on nine attempts, finishing with 23 points. Butler also set a career mark, recording eight assists while contributing five critical points in the closing moments. On the other side, Florida’s Walter Clayton Jr. had a career-high 33 points, and Alijah Martin added 26 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Kentucky’s balanced offense.
One of the key turning points in the game came from Kentucky’s defense. While Florida thrived on the offensive glass, Kentucky capitalized on turnovers, outscoring the Gators 20-4 in points off turnovers. The Wildcats were especially effective in the second half, generating six steals and forcing Florida into costly mistakes.
Kentucky’s ability to weather Florida’s runs and execute down the stretch proved crucial in what was a thrilling start to SEC play.
