Kentucky Wildcats Upset Arkansas in Fayetteville

Sources Say debates the implications of Kentucky's big win and ranks Mark Pope's best victories as head coach.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 8:15pm

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The Kentucky Wildcats pulled off a surprising upset over the Arkansas Razorbacks in Fayetteville, led by strong performances from players like Otega Oweh, Collin Chandler, Malachi Moreno, and Trent Noah. Sources Say discusses the significance of the win, whether it signals a turnaround for the Wildcats, and how it impacts head coach Mark Pope's standing. The podcast also ranks Pope's top 10 wins since taking over the program in 2024.

Why it matters

Kentucky's win over Arkansas was an important statement victory for a team that has struggled at times this season. It could be a turning point that sparks a late-season surge and boosts the Wildcats' chances of making the NCAA Tournament. The win also provides validation for head coach Mark Pope, who has faced some doubters despite leading Kentucky to the NCAA Tournament in his first season.

The details

In the upset win over Arkansas, Kentucky was led by strong individual performances, including 20 points from Otega Oweh, 15 points from Collin Chandler, and 12 points each from Malachi Moreno and Trent Noah. The Wildcats also benefited from some questionable officiating calls that went their way. The victory was an important one for Kentucky, which has struggled at times this season but now has a signature win that could provide a boost heading into the final stretch of the regular season.

  • Kentucky defeated Arkansas on February 1, 2026 in Fayetteville.
  • Mark Pope is in his second season as head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats.

The players

Otega Oweh

A key player for Kentucky who scored 20 points in the upset win over Arkansas.

Collin Chandler

Contributed 15 points to Kentucky's victory over the Razorbacks.

Malachi Moreno

Scored 12 points to help lead the Wildcats to the upset win.

Trent Noah

Also scored 12 points in Kentucky's victory over Arkansas.

Mark Pope

Kentucky's head coach, who is in his second season leading the Wildcats program.

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What they’re saying

“This win could be a real turning point for Kentucky this season. They've struggled at times, but this shows they have the talent to compete with the best teams in the country.”

— Jack Pilgrim, on3.com reporter

“Mark Pope has done a great job steadying the ship in Lexington. This win over Arkansas is a big feather in his cap and should silence some of his doubters.”

— Anonymous Source

What’s next

Kentucky will look to build on this upset win as they continue their SEC schedule, with key games against Florida, Tennessee, and Auburn coming up in the next few weeks.

The takeaway

Kentucky's victory over Arkansas was an important statement win that could provide a much-needed boost for a Wildcats team that has faced its share of challenges this season. The performance of players like Oweh, Chandler, Moreno, and Noah, combined with the validation it provides for head coach Mark Pope, suggests Kentucky may be turning a corner and could be a team to watch down the stretch.