The high-scoring #13 Alabama Crimson Tide (19-7, 11-2 SEC) invade Rupp Arena to take on the #17 Kentucky Wildcats (18-8, 8-5 SEC) in their sole regular-season encounter. Expect fireworks in this shootout between some of the nation’s most potent offenses.
Offensive Firepower: Tide vs. Wildcats
Alabama, sitting atop the SEC standings, brings the nation’s leading scoring attack to Lexington. They also excel from the charity stripe, ranking fifth nationally in free throw percentage (79.1%). Kentucky, not far behind, ranks third nationally in scoring and boasts the nation’s best three-point shooting (40.5%).
Individual Stars: Sears vs. Reeves
Mark Sears leads Alabama’s attack with an impressive 20.4 points per game. Kentucky counters with Antonio Reeves, averaging 19.7 points per game. This matchup promises a duel between two lethal scorers.
Key Stat: Kentucky’s Blocks vs. Alabama’s Three-Point Prowess
Kentucky’s shot-blocking strength (4th nationally) could disrupt Alabama’s rhythm. However, Alabama’s three-point accuracy (ranked 15th) could negate Kentucky’s defensive edge.
Recent Form: Tide on a Roll, Wildcats Seek Rebound
Alabama comes in scorching after a narrow overtime win against Florida. Kentucky aims to bounce back from a heartbreaking one-point loss at LSU, fresh off their upset victory over Auburn.
The Prediction
Get ready for a thrilling, high-scoring affair! KenPom rightly tags this as Saturday’s top game, and our model predicts a wild 105-103 Alabama road win. But in the electric atmosphere of Rupp Arena, anything is possible.
Game Details
- Date: Saturday, February 25th, 2024
- Time: 4:00 PM EST
- Location: Rupp Arena, Lexington