Kentucky (22-10) vs Alabama (24-7)
- When: Mar 14 2025, 9:30 PM
- Where: Bridgestone Arena, Nashville, TN, USA
- Where to watch: SEC Network
SEC Tournament Quarterfinals: Alabama vs. Kentucky Betting Preview & Predictions
The Alabama Crimson Tide look to continue their dominance in the SEC Tournament when they face off against the Kentucky Wildcats in a high-stakes quarterfinal matchup on Friday night. Alabama enters as the No. 3 seed, while Kentucky, fresh off a dramatic last-second win, aims to pull off the upset.
Alabama Outlook
The Crimson Tide (24-7, No. 5 in the nation) have been one of the most consistent teams in the SEC over the last few years, winning the tournament twice in the past four seasons. However, recent history has shown that SEC Tournament success hasn’t necessarily translated into deep NCAA runs.
This season, Alabama has looked primed for a strong March push, with a dynamic offense led by Mark Sears and freshman standout Labaron Philon. The Tide closed the regular season with a huge 93-91 overtime victory over then-No. 1 Auburn, a win that could fuel their tournament momentum.
Key Factors for Alabama
Dominance Over Kentucky – Alabama swept the Wildcats in the regular season, winning 102-97 in Lexington and 96-83 at home.
Explosive Offense – The Tide rank among the highest-scoring teams in the nation and have the firepower to turn any game into a shootout.
Depth & Role Players – Oats emphasized that players like Aden Holloway, Mouhamed Dioubate, and Jarin Stevenson need to contribute beyond the stars for Alabama to hit its ceiling.
Alabama isn’t just here to compete—they want to win the tournament. Expect a fast-paced game with Alabama looking to push the tempo and overwhelm Kentucky’s defense.
Kentucky Outlook
The Wildcats (22-10, No. 15 in the nation) advanced to the quarterfinals in dramatic fashion, edging out Oklahoma 85-84 after Otega Oweh’s game-winning drive in the final second.
While Kentucky showed resilience, they also nearly collapsed in the final minutes, surrendering a 7-0 run in the last minute before Oweh saved the game. They also suffered a setback with guard Lamont Butler exiting due to a shoulder injury, leaving his status uncertain for Friday’s game.
Key Factors for Kentucky
Momentum & Grit – The Wildcats found a way to win against Oklahoma, but they can’t afford another late-game collapse against Alabama’s high-powered attack.
Defense & Turnovers – Turnovers nearly cost them the game against Oklahoma—they’ll need to clean that up against an Alabama squad that thrives in transition.
Otega Oweh’s Impact – 27 points in the first round, including the game-winner—can he carry that momentum into another big performance?
Despite the close win, Kentucky hasn’t matched up well with Alabama this season, allowing over 98 points per game in their two losses. They’ll need a defensive turnaround to keep this game competitive.
Betting Prediction & Best Bets
Alabama’s high-octane offense and depth advantage make them the clear favorite here, especially considering their dominance over Kentucky this season.
Best Bet: Alabama –7 – The Crimson Tide covered in both previous matchups and should do so again given their offensive efficiency.
Lean: Over 179.5 – These teams combined for 199 & 179 points in their two meetings. Expect another track meet.
Alabama’s offensive firepower and Kentucky’s defensive struggles should allow the Crimson Tide to pull away late and cover the spread.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
