Box score from Kentucky basketball’s SEC Tournament late-night thriller over Oklahoma

In a thrilling SEC Tournament second-round matchup on March 13, 2025, the Kentucky Wildcats edged out the Oklahoma Sooners 85-84 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The game featured dramatic momentum shifts, standout individual performances, and a nail-biting finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

First Half: Establishing Dominance

The Wildcats began the game with intensity, embarking on an 8-0 run that set the tone early. However, the Sooners responded resiliently, closing the gap and making it a back-and-forth contest. A pivotal moment occurred when Kentucky’s starting point guard, Lamont Butler, exited the game due to a shoulder injury. This development temporarily disrupted Kentucky’s rhythm, allowing Oklahoma to capitalize and narrow the deficit. The first half concluded with Kentucky holding a slim 40-38 lead. citeturn0news13

Second Half: Shifts in Momentum

The second half saw Kentucky attempting to extend their lead, but Oklahoma remained tenacious, consistently closing in whenever the Wildcats seemed poised to pull away. With just 1:26 remaining, Kentucky led 80-70, but a 14-3 run by Oklahoma, highlighted by freshman Jeremiah Fears’ driving layup with 5.6 seconds left, gave the Sooners an 84-83 advantage. citeturn0search8

The Clutch Finish

In the game’s final moments, with Kentucky trailing by one, Otega Oweh, a former Oklahoma player, drove to the basket and scored a decisive layup with just half a second remaining, securing the win for the Wildcats.

Key Performances

• Kentucky Wildcats:
  • Otega Oweh: Led all scorers with 27 points, including the game-winning layup. He also contributed five assists, four rebounds, and three steals, earning MVP honors.
  • Koby Brea: Added 22 points, showcasing his scoring ability throughout the game.
  • Andrew Carr: Contributed 11 points, providing a solid presence in the paint.
• Oklahoma Sooners:
  • Jeremiah Fears: Delivered an impressive performance with 28 points, five assists, and three steals. His late-game heroics nearly propelled Oklahoma to victory.
  • Jalon Moore: Added 12 points and seven rebounds, playing a crucial role in the Sooners’ comeback attempt.
  • Kobe Elvis: Also contributed 12 points, providing valuable support in the backcourt.

Team Statistics

• Field Goals:
  • Oklahoma: 30-62 (48.4%)
  • Kentucky: 31-60 (51.7%)
• Three-Point Field Goals:
  • Oklahoma: 9-25 (36.0%)
  • Kentucky: 8-24 (33.3%)
• Free Throws:
  • Oklahoma: 15-18 (83.3%)
  • Kentucky: 15-22 (68.2%)
• Rebounds:
  • Oklahoma: 28 (4 offensive)
  • Kentucky: 32 (5 offensive)
• Turnovers:
  • Oklahoma: 8
  • Kentucky: 10

Post-Game Reflections

The Wildcats’ resilience was evident, particularly in their ability to respond after Oklahoma’s late surge. Oweh’s performance was nothing short of heroic, especially given his history with the Sooners. Looking ahead, Kentucky faces a formidable challenge in the quarterfinals against Alabama, a team that enters the matchup well-rested. Complicating matters, Kentucky may be without Lamont Butler, whose status is uncertain due to his shoulder injury.

The Wildcats’ victory exemplifies the unpredictability and excitement of tournament basketball, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating continuation of the SEC Tournament.