Lexington, Ky – March 4, 2025 – Michael Willis
The Big Blue Nation came together tonight to watch their Wildcats play the last game of the season in Rupp Arena against the LSU Tigers. As per tradition, the Seniors were celebrated in pre-game festivities and this year we had six seniors playing their last game in Rupp. Andrew Carr, Jaxson Robinson, Ansley Almonor, Lamont Butler, Koby Brea, and Amari Williams all were given standing ovations for their contributions to this Kentucky team. Kerr Krissa was not included in tonight’s ceremonies even though he is a Senior because he is planning on returning with a medical redshirt next season.
There is no better way to send the Seniors out than with a blow-out, 95-64, victory. After losing to Auburn the Cats needed a morale boosting win before post-season play. It also gives Mark Pope his 20th win in his first season as Kentucky’s head coach.
Kentucky started the game a little out-of-sorts offensively missing their first three shots of the game, but a three-pointer by Koby Brea started a 10-0 run for the Cats. Kentucky led by as many as 14 points, but a 6-0 run pulled the Tigers back into the game 18-10 with 11:39 left in the first half. That would be the last time LSU were within striking distance of Kentucky as the Cats ended the half with a 50-23 lead.
It was the largest halftime lead for the Cats this season. The Cats played well on both ends of the court ending the half shooting 58.8% from the field while holding the Tigers to 37.9% from the field. LSU didn’t make a three-point basket in the first half missing all eight attempts. The Wildcats made 7 of their 14 three-point attempts. Otega Oweh led all scorers with 15 first half points.
Kentucky continued to play well in the second half and pushed the lead to 30 with 14:35 left in the game. The Wildcats kept the Tigers in check the rest of the game and won easily 95-64.
Otega Oweh led both teams in scoring and rebounds with 24 points and 8 rebounds. Oweh made 9 of his 11 field goal attempts and all 6 of his free-throws.
Collin Chandler had one of his best games as a Cats with 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists. Mark Pope spoke about how important Chandler, Noah, and Perry will be in March. Stating that they are “ready and capable and they have to step up and make huge plays for us.”
The last regular season game will be Saturday at noon when the Cats travel to Missouri to take the Tigers. It should be a high scoring game. The Tigers are averaging 84.6 points per game compared to the Cats’ 85.3
