LEXINGTON – February 28, 2026 – Michael Willis
The Cats picked up another top-25 win to add to their tournament résumé with a 91–77 victory over the Vanderbilt Commodores at Rupp Arena on Saturday. Kentucky dominated the game from start to finish, never allowing Vandy a real chance at a comeback. It was a much-needed win after losing three of its last four games and provided positive momentum heading into postseason play.
The Wildcats started hot, jumping out to a 21–12 lead with 14:51 remaining in the first half. Kentucky made four of its first seven three-point attempts and played with confidence on both ends of the floor. The lead grew to double digits after Collin Chandler knocked down his fourth three of the game. The Cats continued to dominate, hitting three more consecutive three-pointers and pushing the advantage to 16 at the eight-minute media timeout. Vanderbilt made a late 7–0 run to cut the lead to 13, but another Chandler three halted the momentum as Kentucky closed the half leading 46–31.
The Wildcats got off to a sluggish start in the second half, making just one field goal in the first three minutes. However, free throws allowed Kentucky to maintain control. Despite a late 8–0 run by Vanderbilt, the Cats continued their strong play down the stretch and pulled away for the 91–77 win.
Chandler and Otega Oweh led all scorers with 23 points apiece. Chandler had an outstanding shooting night, connecting on six of his eight attempts from beyond the arc. Malaki Moreno led Kentucky on the boards with six rebounds.
Kentucky made the most of its fast start and carried the momentum throughout the game. The Cats were more aggressive offensively and shared the ball well, recording 16 assists on 30 made baskets.
Both teams finished with 11 turnovers, but Kentucky capitalized more effectively, scoring five more points off turnovers than Vanderbilt. The Wildcats also controlled the glass, out-rebounding the Commodores by seven and producing four more second-chance points.
Saturday’s win showed what this team can be when it gives full effort for 40 minutes. It was an important victory for NCAA Tournament seeding and, more importantly, provided renewed hope for the fanbase. That same level of effort will be needed on the road Tuesday night when Kentucky faces Texas A&M at 7:00 p.m.