Kentucky wildcats coach reveal the real scores

In a game few expected Kentucky to win, John Calipari and the Wildcats went down to Auburn and handed the Tigers their first home loss of the season.

The win could be a turning point for the 23-24 Cats, who have struggled in recent weeks.

Last night’s victory over Auburn was significant for several reasons.

First, it is a significant win for Kentucky’s NCAA Tournament resume, as the Cats secure a much-needed Quad 1 victory.

Second, it keeps Kentucky in contention to finish in the top four of the SEC. Alabama leads the SEC with two conference losses, while Tennessee ranks second with three. Auburn, South Carolina, Florida, and Kentucky have all lost four games.

Kentucky since the Gonzaga game last Saturday has gone from 126th to 103rd to now 81st in defensive efficiency. Wild to swing 45 spots in a week.

Bruce Pearl just walked in, threw up his hands, said: "Kentucky can guard. They can turn it up when they want to."

— Kyle Tucker (@KyleTucker_ATH) February 18, 2024

Finally, the win gives Kentucky some much-needed momentum. This team and its fans needed a feel-good win, and Kentucky delivered last night. They went on the road in one of the toughest environments in the SEC (and the country) and defeated the Tigers by playing solid defense and outrebounding them.

The Cats have now won two games in a row and have some momentum heading into a crucial stretch that includes road games at LSU and Mississippi State, as well as a matchup at Rupp against Alabama.

Let’s see if they can build on last night’s performance and propel this team to the heights we know they are capable of.