Kentucky and Tennessee have a long-standing rivalry, playing twice a year for over 100 years. However, the stakes are especially high for their NCAA Tournament matchup, as it marks the first time the two teams meet in the Big Dance. This rare encounter is part of a larger historical context where NCAA Tournament rematches, particularly against conference rivals, are uncommon. In fact, Kentucky’s 1986 tournament run led to rule changes in March Madness to avoid rematches.
Despite this, Kentucky has had significant success in NCAA Tournament rematches since 1975, when the field expanded to 32 teams. The Wildcats hold a 15-6 record (.714 winning percentage) in 21 regular-season rematches in the NCAA Tournament. John Calipari has been involved in nine of these rematches, winning six, including notable victories like De’Aaron Fox’s performance against Lonzo Ball in 2017, and triumphs over rivals like Louisville and Indiana in the tournament. However, Kentucky has also faced painful losses in rematches, such as the overtime defeat to Auburn in the 2019 Elite Eight and a buzzer-beater loss to North Carolina in 2017.
Only four teams have managed to avenge regular-season losses to Kentucky in the NCAA Tournament: Auburn in 2019, North Carolina in 2017, LSU in 1986, and UAB in 1981. This further highlights Kentucky’s strong track record in tournament rematches, as the Wildcats have generally been able to avenge regular-season losses.
Notable rematches throughout Kentucky’s NCAA Tournament history include thrilling moments, such as Kentucky avenging a loss to UMass in the 1996 Final Four and the unforgettable 1975 NCAA matchup with Indiana. Throughout these matchups, Kentucky has consistently risen to the challenge, making tournament rematches a source of pride for Big Blue Nation.
Kentucky’s upcoming game against Tennessee is a perfect example of this pattern. Despite beating Tennessee twice in the regular season, the Wildcats will face a tough challenge in this rematch, aiming to continue their dominance in the NCAA Tournament against familiar foes. Fans of the Wildcats are eager to see if their team can keep the rematch winning streak alive, continuing a proud tradition of overcoming challenges in the Big Dance.
