Kentucky Basketball Stuns No. 24 Tennessee with Epic Comeback.
In a thrilling SEC showdown on Saturday, January 17, 2026, the Kentucky Wildcats delivered another heart-pounding victory, rallying from a 17-point first-half deficit to defeat the No. 24 Tennessee Volunteers 80-78 in Knoxville. This marks the third consecutive game where the Cats have overcome a double-digit hole, showcasing remarkable resilience under coach Mark Pope.
Kentucky trailed 42-31 at halftime after Tennessee dominated early with strong interior play. However, the second half belonged to the Wildcats, who outscored the Vols 49-36. Guard Denzel Aberdeen led the charge with 22 points (18 in the second half), while contributions from Collin Chandler’s sharp shooting and Mouhamed Dioubate’s physicality helped flip the momentum. Kentucky held Tennessee without a field goal in the final 5:38, sealing the win with clutch baskets from Aberdeen and Otega Oweh in the closing seconds.
The victory improves Kentucky to 12-6 overall and 3-2 in the SEC, marking one of their most impressive road triumphs of the season against a ranked opponent. Tensions ran high postgame, with a brief shoving match underscoring the rivalry’s intensity.
This “special” win in hostile Thompson-Boling Arena highlights the Cats’ growing toughness and ability to thrive under pressureβproving they’re a team built for dramatic finishes. Fans are buzzing about the Cardiac Cats’ latest masterpiece!
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