LEXINGTON, Ky. – In a stunning upset at Rupp Arena on Tuesday night, the Georgia Bulldogs defeated the Kentucky Wildcats 86-78, ending a 12-game losing streak against their SEC rivals. The loss highlighted significant defensive struggles for Kentucky, allowing Georgia to shoot 45% from three-point range, converting 14 of 31 attempts. This marks Georgia’s first win at Rupp Arena since 2009, according to ClutchPoints.
The Wildcats (17-8, 8-4 SEC) faltered after leading for roughly 14 minutes in the first half, succumbing to seven turnovers that resulted in 10 points for the Bulldogs. Georgia closed the first half strong, reeling off a 10-3 spurt to take a lead into the break. Despite a strong individual performance from Otega Oweh, who led Kentucky with 12 points, the team’s overall defensive effort proved insufficient.
Kentucky coach Mark Pope expressed his disappointment with his team’s performance, particularly on the defensive end. “We were not decent defensively,” Pope stated, as quoted by Kentucky.com. “In the second half, they shoot 57% from three. That’s a poor commentary on our defensive effort.” Pope also noted that his team inexplicably abandoned defensive assignments after halftime, allowing Georgia to capitalize on open looks.
The Bulldogs were led by Jeremiah Wilkinson, who scored nine points despite missing the previous two games. Georgia’s success was also fueled by Somto Cyril, a 6-foot-11 sophomore center who previously committed to Kentucky before former coach John Calipari departed for Arkansas. Pope praised Cyril’s impact, stating he is “an elite-level offensive rebounder” and “causing some real pain in there,” according to the Courier-Journal.
Defensive Breakdown Costs Wildcats
Georgia’s ability to consistently knock down three-pointers proved to be the decisive factor in the game. The Bulldogs’ 45% shooting from beyond the arc significantly outpaced Kentucky’s defensive efforts. Pope acknowledged the team’s struggles in containing Georgia’s perimeter shooters, attributing it to a lack of effort, and focus. The Wildcats allowed 47 points in the second half alone, a testament to their defensive shortcomings.
Oweh Shines in Loss
While the team as a whole struggled, Otega Oweh provided a bright spot for Kentucky, leading the team in scoring with 12 points. Despite his individual performance, Oweh expressed disappointment with his own game, acknowledging that breakdowns at crucial moments hampered his overall impact. Pope noted that Oweh is carrying a significant burden for the team and is striving for even better performances.
Looking Ahead for Kentucky
The loss drops Kentucky to 17-8 overall and 8-4 in SEC play. The Wildcats will have a week to regroup and address their defensive issues before facing Auburn on Saturday, February 21st at 8:30 p.m. ET. The game against Auburn will be a crucial test for Kentucky as they look to regain their footing in the competitive SEC standings. The game will be broadcast on ESPN, and can also be streamed via Fubo (free trial available). Fans can also listen to the game on the UK radio network on 840 AM in Louisville and 630 AM and 98.1 FM in Lexington.
The Wildcats will need to demonstrate a significant improvement on the defensive end to compete with Auburn and navigate the remainder of their SEC schedule. The team’s ability to limit turnovers and contain opposing shooters will be key to their success.
What are your thoughts on Kentucky’s loss to Georgia? Share your opinions in the comments below!
