Texas A&M (13-3) at Kentucky (13-3)
- When: Jan 14 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Rupp Arena, Rupp Arena
- Where to watch: ESPN2
Kentucky Favored as Texas A&M Looks to Bounce Back in SEC Showdown
The stage is set for an SEC battle as No. 11 Texas A&M heads to Lexington to face No. 8 Kentucky, with the Wildcats favored by 6 points and the total set at 159.5. Both teams come into Tuesday’s clash with something to prove, making this a must-watch matchup for bettors and fans alike.
Texas A&M’s Road Challenge
Texas A&M (13-3, 2-1 SEC) faces its third straight ranked opponent after splitting its last two games. The Aggies pulled out a nail-biting win at then-No. 17 Oklahoma before falling 94-88 in a shootout against No. 5 Alabama. Despite battling without top scorer Wade Taylor IV, the Aggies showed resilience but fell short due to poor shooting from the line, finishing just 28 of 48 on free throws and a disappointing 4 of 18 from beyond the arc. Taylor’s status remains uncertain, adding another layer of unpredictability.
Zhuric Phelps (24 points) and Pharrell Payne (23 points) led the Aggies’ charge against Alabama, cutting a 15-point second-half deficit to just three before running out of steam. Still, Texas A&M is 4-1 against ranked opponents this season—a crucial stat for bettors eyeing a potential upset.
Kentucky Eyes Momentum at Home
The Wildcats (13-3, 2-1 SEC) are coming off a thrilling 95-90 road win over Mississippi State, their first true road win of the season. Kentucky’s offense was firing on all cylinders, led by Jaxson Robinson’s season-high 27 points. The Wildcats built a 14-point second-half lead before Mississippi State briefly surged ahead, but a clutch three-pointer from Ansley Almonor helped Kentucky regain control.
Contributions came from all over: Otega Oweh had 15 points and eight rebounds, Andrew Carr added 13 points, and Amari Williams posted his third double-double of the season with 10 points and 12 rebounds. Lamont Butler chipped in 10 points and eight assists, showcasing the depth of Kentucky’s roster.
Kentucky’s defense will need to tighten up after allowing Mississippi State back into the game, but their resilience down the stretch is a promising sign. The Wildcats have won three of their last four games and are seeking revenge after losing the last two matchups against Texas A&M, including an overtime loss at home last season.
Betting Breakdown and Predictions
Spread Play: Kentucky -6.0
Kentucky’s home-court advantage and their recent offensive explosion make them a solid pick to cover the spread. Texas A&M has struggled with free throws and three-point shooting, which could be costly in a hostile environment like Rupp Arena.
Total Bet: Over 159.5
Both teams have demonstrated high-scoring potential, with their recent matchups eclipsing the 90-point mark. If Taylor IV plays, the Aggies can keep pace offensively, making the over an appealing option.
Player Prop to Watch:
Jaxson Robinson Points: After a 27-point performance, expect Robinson to stay aggressive, especially against a Texas A&M defense prone to fouling.
Zhuric Phelps Points: Phelps’ ability to score in bunches makes him a strong candidate for another big game if Taylor IV remains sidelined.
Prediction: Kentucky 87, Texas A&M 80
The Wildcats’ balanced attack and home-court edge should carry them to a cover, but Texas A&M’s grit will keep things interesting. Keep an eye on the line movement and player updates, especially concerning Wade Taylor IV, as his availability could swing the outcome.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
