Lexington, Kentucky, February 9, 2026
In a thrilling encounter at Rupp Arena, the Kentucky Wildcats staged a remarkable comeback, overcoming a 14-point halftime deficit to secure a 74-71 victory over the No. 25 Tennessee Volunteers. Led by Otega Oweh’s 21 points and Collin Chandler’s critical three-pointer with seconds to go, Kentucky completed a regular-season sweep of their SEC rivals. The Wildcats outscored the Volunteers 41-24 in the second half, showcasing their resilience and determination. This win is historic, marking the largest halftime deficit overcome by Kentucky at home.
Lexington, Kentucky – February 7, 2026
The Kentucky Wildcats overcame a 14-point halftime deficit to defeat the No. 25 Tennessee Volunteers 74-71 at Rupp Arena, completing a regular-season sweep of their SEC rivals.
Game Highlights
- Otega Oweh led Kentucky with 21 points, contributing significantly to the second-half comeback.
- Collin Chandler hit a crucial three-pointer with 32 seconds remaining, giving the Wildcats a 71-69 lead.
- Denzel Aberdeen sealed the victory by making two free throws with 3.7 seconds left, finishing with 16 points.
- Malachi Moreno added 10 points, supporting the team’s offensive efforts.
- Nate Ament scored a game-high 29 points for Tennessee, including 19 in the first half, but the Volunteers couldn’t maintain their lead.
Team Performance
- Second-Half Surge: Kentucky outscored Tennessee 41-24 in the second half, showcasing resilience and determination.
- Defensive Adjustments: The Wildcats improved their defense after halftime, limiting Tennessee’s scoring opportunities.
- Historical Significance: This victory marked the largest halftime deficit overcome by Kentucky in Rupp Arena history, surpassing a previous record of 12 points against Arkansas in 2006.
Background Context
- Season Series: Kentucky had previously defeated Tennessee 80-78 in Knoxville on January 17, 2026, securing the season sweep.
- Team Records: With this win, Kentucky improved to 17-7 overall and 8-3 in the Southeastern Conference, while Tennessee fell to 16-7 and 6-4 in the SEC.
- Upcoming Games: Kentucky will have a mid-week open date before returning to action on Saturday, February 14, 2026, against Florida in Gainesville.
Notable Moments
- Pre-Game Tribute: Kentucky honored its 1995-96 national championship team prior to tipoff, bringing back the denim uniforms worn during that era.
- Fan Engagement: The game was attended by 20,123 fans, creating an electric atmosphere at Rupp Arena.
Looking Ahead
- Conference Implications: This victory strengthens Kentucky’s position in the SEC standings, enhancing their prospects for postseason play.
- Team Momentum: The Wildcats aim to build on this win as they prepare for their upcoming games, focusing on maintaining their competitive edge.
Key Statistics
| Statistic | Kentucky | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 74 | 71 |
| Halftime Score | 33 | 47 |
| Second Half Points | 41 | 24 |
| Leading Scorer | Otega Oweh (21 points) | Nate Ament (29 points) |
| Free Throws Made | 10 | 10 |
| Three-Pointers Made | 7 | 9 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the final score of the Kentucky vs. Tennessee game on February 7, 2026?
The final score was Kentucky 74, Tennessee 71.
Who led Kentucky in scoring during the game?
Otega Oweh led Kentucky with 21 points.
What was the halftime score of the game?
At halftime, Tennessee led 47-33.
How many fans attended the game?
The game was attended by 20,123 fans.
When is Kentucky’s next game?
Kentucky’s next game is on Saturday, February 14, 2026, against Florida in Gainesville.
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