Kentucky (12-2) at Georgia (12-2)
- When: Jan 7 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Stegeman Coliseum, Athens, GA, USA
- Where to watch: SEC Network
The Kentucky Wildcats are narrow 1.5-point favorites as they head to Athens for their first SEC road game of the season, squaring off against the Georgia Bulldogs. The total for this highly anticipated matchup is set at 155, hinting at a fast-paced shootout.
Kentucky (12-2, 1-0 SEC) enters the contest riding high after a thrilling 106-100 victory over Florida. The Wildcats’ offense ranks second nationally, averaging 90.2 points per game, just behind Alabama. The Wildcats have been dominant, winning five of their last six, but they’ll be seeking their first road win at Georgia since 2020.
Head coach Mark Pope has silenced any skepticism surrounding his first year in Lexington, with marquee wins over top-ranked squads like Duke, Gonzaga, and most recently Florida. Kentucky’s offense was lights-out on Saturday, shooting 57.8% from the field and draining 14-of-29 from beyond the arc. Koby Brea stole the show with 23 points, including seven triples.
“This league is going to be so much fun if every game is like this,” Pope said after the Florida win. “The guys aren’t scared—they’re loving the big moments.”
Otega Oweh leads the Wildcats with 15.9 points per game, followed closely by Lamont Butler (13.8) and sharpshooter Koby Brea (12.7), who is leading the nation in 3-point accuracy at 52.3%. Kentucky’s deep rotation makes them a nightmare to defend.
Georgia (12-2, 0-1 SEC) is eager to rebound after their seven-game win streak ended with a 63-51 loss at Ole Miss. The Bulldogs struggled offensively, hitting just 29.3% of their shots and a dismal 2-for-18 from 3-point range.
“We’re better shooters than that,” said head coach Mike White after the loss. “We just had an off night.”
Freshman Asa Newell has been a standout for Georgia, averaging 15.4 points and 13 rebounds, while De’Shayne Montgomery (13.5 points in four games) and Dakota Leffew (12.3 points) provide additional firepower. Returning to Stegeman Coliseum should give the Bulldogs an added boost as they aim to regain their form.
Prediction: Kentucky’s high-octane offense will test Georgia’s defense, but the Bulldogs are tough at home and eager to bounce back. Expect a close game, but with their superior shooting and recent form, the Wildcats have the edge. Take Kentucky to win and cover the 1.5-point spread in what could be another high-scoring affair.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
