Get ready to pack your bags and head to Catsville because the Kentucky Wildcats mens basketball team is set to play their first game of the 2023 SEC Tournament in just four days. With five wins in their last six games, the team has moved up to 3rd place in the conference with a record of 12-6 against their regular season opponents. As a result, they’ve earned a double-bye, which means they’ll advance past the first two rounds and have extra time to rest and recover.
For those who haven’t been following the team closely, two of Kentucky’s four guards have been out for several games. Sahvir Wheeler has been sidelined since February 4th, while CJ Fredrick has missed several games and is still limited due to a cracked rib. Additionally, Cason Wallace was ruled out of the game against Vanderbilt due to an injury to his lower left leg. Not having these players available means a significant loss in points, rebounds, and assists, and leaves Kentucky without a point guard.
Despite these challenges, Kentucky has locked in a 3-seed and will face the winner of the (14) LSU/(11) Georgia vs. (6) Vanderbilt game in the late game on Friday, around 9:00 p.m. ET. The team has picked up wins against several opponents, including Tennessee and Texas A&M, and has only suffered a few losses throughout the regular season.
Kentucky’s spot in the bracket also means they won’t face 1-seeded Alabama until a potential Championship Game matchup on Sunday. To take home their seventh SEC Championship under John Calipari and their 32nd overall, they’ll need to win just three total games. Kentucky has an impressive track record in the SEC Tournament, with 8 final game appearances in the last 12 tournaments.
To get you excited for the tournament, here are some fun facts from UK’s staff: the Wildcats have an all-time record of 135-28 in the SEC Tournament, and Calipari has been to 19 conference championship games, winning an impressive 15 of them. Kentucky also has a winning record against Vanderbilt, Georgia, and LSU in the tournament.
