The Southeastern Conference rivalry heats up this Saturday as #13 Alabama travels to face #17 Kentucky at Rupp Arena. The Crimson Tide are coming off a huge 98-93 OT comeback victory over #24 Florida in Alabama on Wednesday. The Wildcats lost a tough one at LSU that same night on a last-second shot, 75-74.
Alabama’s Dominant Run
The Crimson Tide come into this game riding a three-game winning streak, boasting an impressive 19-7 record and sitting atop the SEC standings with an 11-2 mark. Their offense, led by the dynamic duo of Mark Sears and Aaron Estrada, both accounted for over 4 APG each. They have been clicking on all cylinders, averaging 91 points per game, the highest in all Division I. Defensively, they have been stout, allowing just 77 points in their extremely high-paced games, thanks to the presence of Grant Nelson, averaging 1.7 blocks per game.
Kentucky’s Recent Struggles
Despite their impressive 18-8, 8-5 SEC record, the Wildcats have hit a bit of a rough patch lately, losing two of their last three games. However, their talent remains undeniable, with Antonio Reeves lighting it up from beyond the arc and freshman sensation Rob Dillingham. They also boast a deep and experienced roster, with Reed Sheppard leading a well-rounded backcourt. Big man Tre Mitchell has been out for four out of the last five games for Kentucky and it has shown.
Matchup Intangibles
This game is much more than just a battle for conference bragging rights. It’s a chance for Alabama to solidify its position as the SEC’s top dog and for Kentucky to bounce back and silence their doubters. Both teams are coming off hard-fought battles coming into this one which may play a factor.
Home Court Advantage
Kentucky boasts a strong 13-4 home record this season, while Alabama has struggled on the road, going 5-6.
The Stars
The Wildcat’s success hinges on the scoring ability of Reeves and Dillingham. They cannot allow the Crimson Tide to dictate the pace in this game. Alabama’s backcourt duo of Sears and Estrada would love to run up and down the court and put this game in the 90s.
Prediction
This game should be a nail-biter, as most of these big SEC matchups have been. Alabama’s high-flying offense and the possible absence of Mitchell could give them the edge. But with Dillingham taking the nation by storm these late few weeks, along with Kentucky’s home-court advantage, expect the Wildcats to pull off a much needed win. Dillingham and Reeves combine for 40 and get back on track.
Final Score: Kentucky 87, Alabama 81
Thank you for reading my NCAA Rupp Arena article. Our website is your premier destination for all things related to college basketball and more. Head to my Belly Up Sports Page and follow me on Twitter/X. For NCAA and all other sports articles go to Belly Up Sports. Featured image credit Andy Lyons/Getty Images.
