No. 10 Kentucky (12-2) started SEC play with a bang, outlasting No. 6 Florida (13-1) 106-100 in a thrilling, high-scoring affair on Saturday at Rupp Arena. The Wildcats handed the Gators their first loss of the season in a game full of momentum swings, clutch shots, and impressive offensive play.
Despite a slow start, Kentucky responded in dominant fashion after falling behind by 11 points early in the first half. A 16-0 run helped the Wildcats reclaim control, and they carried a 52-42 lead into halftime. Koby Brea led the charge with 14 points in the first half, including four three-pointers, while Otega Oweh added 10 points. Lamont Butler contributed seven points and four assists before the break.
In the second half, Florida came out strong, with Alijah Martin scoring 15 points in the opening minutes, cutting Kentucky’s lead to just one point, 70-69. However, Kentucky responded with a 10-0 run to extend the lead back into double digits. Despite a late rally from Florida, who capitalized on free-throw opportunities, Kentucky kept its composure. Andrew Carr’s clutch three-pointer with under 90 seconds left pushed the lead to eight, and the Wildcats held on to seal the victory.
Brea finished with a game-high 23 points, shooting 7-9 from three-point range. Oweh added 16 points, while Amari Williams contributed 15 points and eight rebounds. Kentucky shot an impressive 58 percent from the field and 48 percent from beyond the arc, offsetting their struggles on the boards.
With this statement win, Kentucky proves they are a force to be reckoned with in the SEC, sending a clear message to the rest of the conference.
