In a disappointing loss for the No. 6 Kentucky Wildcats, they were unable to overcome the South Carolina Gamecocks on Tuesday night, falling 79-62. Despite a strong performance off the bench from Rob Dillingham, who scored 16 points, the Wildcats couldn’t find a way to secure the victory.
Antonio Reeves also contributed 15 points for Kentucky, although he struggled with his shooting, making just 6 of 18 attempts from the floor. Tre Mitchell provided additional support with 13 points and five rebounds. However, Kentucky’s final score of 62 points was the lowest they have recorded all season.
The game started with Kentucky taking an early lead, scoring the first four points. However, South Carolina quickly responded with a 7-0 run, overtaking the Wildcats and establishing a 7-4 advantage. Kentucky rallied with an impressive 11-2 run, fueled by the efforts of Dillingham, resulting in a 17-12 lead. Dillingham hit a three-pointer to extend the Wildcats’ advantage to 20-15 with just under nine minutes remaining in the first half.
After a Zvonimir Ivisic free throw increased Kentucky’s lead to 21-16, the Gamecocks went on their own run, scoring 11 out of the next 13 points. This surge allowed South Carolina to take a 27-23 lead with 3:21 left in the first half. Kentucky managed to narrow the gap to just two points with a Dillingham jumper, making it 27-25, but unfortunately, they couldn’t score again before halftime, allowing the Gamecocks to carry a 33-25 lead into the break. Dillingham was the top scorer in the first half, accumulating 11 points.
The second half saw Reeves opening with four quick points, reducing South Carolina’s lead to 33-29. However, B.J. Mack countered with a three-pointer, giving the Gamecocks a 36-29 advantage. Despite Kentucky’s efforts, they were unable to close the gap significantly. They managed to bring the deficit to just four points after a three-pointer from Reeves, making it 40-36. Mitchell’s consecutive baskets drew them within two at 40-38. Unfortunately, the Gamecocks responded with five unanswered points, reclaiming a seven-point lead at 45-38. South Carolina continued to dominate, going on a 13-2 run, extending their lead to 53-40 with 11:32 left in the game.
The Gamecocks’ stronghold continued, as they embarked on a 9-2 run after a basket from D.J. Wagner, resulting in a substantial 62-44 lead with 7:49 remaining. South Carolina eventually secured a 20-point lead in the second half, solidifying their victory over the Wildcats.
Despite this defeat, Kentucky looks ahead to their next game against Arkansas on Saturday. The Wildcats will be aiming to bounce back and regain their winning momentum. The game is scheduled for 6 p.m. and will be broadcasted live on ESPN.
