NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Kentucky Wildcats eked out an exhilarating 85-84 victory over the Oklahoma Sooners during the second round of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Tournament on March 13, 2025. It was a nail-biter—Kentucky’s first tournament win since 2022—and it came courtesy of Otega Oweh, who made the game-winning basket with just half a second left on the clock.
The stage was set at the Bridgestone Arena, with attendance reaching 16,347 passionate fans, most of whom were there to support Kentucky. Nonetheless, the Sooners were no pushovers, even as the Wildcats controlled most of the game and led for over 34 minutes.
Kentucky, now 22-10, took its largest lead of the night—12 points—with less than four minutes to go. But Oklahoma, trailing 80-70, went on a furious 14-3 run to snatch the lead back with just under six seconds remaining. Freshman star Jeremiah Fears, who had been instrumental throughout the game, scored the layup to give Oklahoma momentary glory. He finished with game-high 28 points, highlighting his pivotal role with four rebounds and game-highs of five assists and three steals.
Oklahoma fought hard, showcasing their resilience; they faced multiple deficits and quickly erased them all. After trailing at halftime 40-38, the Sooners battled back to take the slimest of leads, 84-83, when Fears drove for his layup just 5.6 seconds before the final buzzer. But Oweh, showcasing his poise under pressure, swiftly answered with his own game-winner, cementing his reputation as the clutch performer the Wildcats live for.
Coach Mark Pope, celebrating his first SEC Tournament win at Kentucky, spoke passionately about his team’s focus and determination. "The privilege of playing, coaching, and being associated with this program means every single game feels like this. We don’t know how to turn the temperature up more," he said. The win against Oklahoma pushed Kentucky to the SEC quarterfinals, where they are set to face Alabama—a team they lost to twice during the regular season, including once at home.
Oweh’s performance was particularly noteworthy as he reached 1,000 career points during the event—something only eight current Wildcats have accomplished. Oweh scored 27 points against his former team, Oklahoma, rekindling the rivalry after he previously lit up the scoreboard with 28 points against them just weeks earlier.
His contributions also included four rebounds, five assists, and three steals, making him the standout player on the court. Koby Brea added valuable support with 22 points and was efficient from the field with 75% accuracy. Andrew Carr contributed 11 points and was instrumental on the glass, grabbing seven rebounds.
Despite their slight edge throughout the game, Kentucky faced adversity when they lost Lamont Butler, the starting point guard, who exited midway through the first half due to re-aggravated shoulder issues. Butler had already missed six games earlier this season due to the same injury. His absence was felt, but the remaining Wildcats rose to the occasion, showcasing their depth and resilience.
Following Butler's departure, the Wildcats kept the intensity alive and adapted their strategy, ensuring they maintained their composure. With turnovers affecting their momentum late, they managed to stay focused, and the thrilling back-and-forth play energized the crowd, setting the stage for Oweh's game-winning shot.
Kentucky's thrilling win not only marked a significant moment for Coach Pope but also reinstated the Wildcats' position as fierce contenders as they proceed through the tournament. Their next challenge will be against Alabama, where they hope to keep their momentum alive. Remember, Alabama has swept the Wildcats during their previous encounters this season.
"We’re focused on the process. Our goal is to concentrate on the current positions, one play at a time," Coach Pope remarked, setting the tone for their upcoming game. For now, the Wildcats keep their eyes on the prize, striving for another win.
Will Kentucky continue this resurgence as they face Alabama? Only time will tell as they prepare to take the court for the SEC quarterfinals this Friday.