Kentucky Wildcats Secure Comeback Win Over Tennessee Volunteers at Rupp Arena

Wildcats rally from 14-point deficit to defeat rivals and earn regular-season sweep

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The Kentucky Wildcats overcame a 14-point first-half deficit to defeat the Tennessee Volunteers 65-59 in a thrilling comeback victory at Rupp Arena. The Wildcats outscored the Vols 41-24 in the second half, with key contributions from multiple players down the stretch to secure the win.

Why it matters

This victory is a significant accomplishment for the Wildcats, as they earned a regular-season sweep over their SEC rival Tennessee. The comeback win also showcases the team's resilience and ability to battle back from early deficits, a trait that will serve them well as they continue their push for postseason success.

The details

Kentucky trailed by as many as 14 points in the first half, but the team's defense tightened up in the second half, holding Tennessee to just 24 points. Otega Oweh made crucial defensive plays, Collin Chandler hit a crucial 3-pointer late, and multiple Wildcats contributed key rebounds and free throws down the stretch to secure the victory.

  • The game was played on February 7, 2026 at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky.
  • Kentucky trailed by 14 points in the first half before rallying in the second half.

The players

Otega Oweh

A Kentucky player who made important defensive plays late in the game to help secure the victory.

Collin Chandler

A Kentucky player who hit a crucial 3-pointer in the final minute to give the Wildcats the lead.

Brandon Garrison

A Kentucky player who had a crucial offensive rebound and putback to help the Wildcats' comeback effort.

Mo Dioubate

A Kentucky player who made a key rebound of a missed free throw late in the game.

Denzel Aberdeen

A Kentucky player who hit important free throws down the stretch to help seal the victory.

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What they’re saying

“We had to dig deep and fight back, but I'm proud of the way our guys responded in the second half. This was a total team effort and a big win for us.”

— John Calipari, Head Coach, Kentucky Wildcats (aseaofblue.com)

What’s next

The Wildcats will look to build on this momentum as they continue their SEC schedule, with key matchups against ranked opponents on the horizon.

The takeaway

Kentucky's come-from-behind victory over Tennessee showcases the team's resilience and ability to make winning plays in crunch time, traits that will serve them well as they aim for postseason success. The Wildcats' regular-season sweep of the Volunteers is a significant accomplishment that should boost their confidence and position in the SEC standings.