Brandon Garrison shines as Kentucky edges LSU in SEC Tournament

Garrison's 17 points and 5 rebounds off the bench propel Wildcats to narrow victory

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

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In a tight first-round SEC Tournament matchup, Kentucky Wildcats forward Brandon Garrison delivered a standout performance, scoring 17 points and grabbing 5 rebounds off the bench to help the Wildcats defeat LSU 87-82. Garrison's timely 3-pointers and physical play were crucial in securing the narrow victory for Kentucky, who now advance to face Missouri in the next round.

Why it matters

Garrison's breakout game comes at a critical juncture, as the Wildcats look to make a deep run in the SEC and NCAA Tournaments. His ability to provide an X-factor off the bench could be the difference-maker Kentucky needs to advance.

The details

Trailing for much of the game, Kentucky received a major boost from Garrison, who hit several key 3-pointers and played with physicality around the rim. His stat line of 17 points and 5 rebounds was instrumental in the Wildcats' narrow victory over LSU.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, March 12, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.

The players

Brandon Garrison

A three-year forward for the Kentucky Wildcats who delivered a standout performance off the bench in the SEC Tournament first-round game.

Denzel Aberdeen

A Kentucky Wildcats player who praised Garrison's contributions and readiness to step up in a big moment.

Mark Pope

The head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats, who was impressed by Garrison's physical play and timely shooting in the victory.

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What they’re saying

“He came, and he stepped up big-time. He always comes to the game ready 110%. He's not backing down to any challenge. I'm just proud of him today for him coming up and stepping up.”

— Denzel Aberdeen, Kentucky Wildcats player (aseaofblue.com)

“He's been telling me all season, Coach, I'm not going to make any shots till the postseason. I'm just going to save them. Apparently, he knows more than I do (smiling).”

— Mark Pope, Kentucky Wildcats head coach (aseaofblue.com)

“When BG is operating like that, when he's that physical and intentional, he's special. Take the threes, lose the threes. He was a huge factor for us in this game.”

— Mark Pope, Kentucky Wildcats head coach (aseaofblue.com)

What’s next

The Wildcats will take on Missouri in the next round of the SEC Tournament on Thursday, March 13, 2026 at 12:30 PM ET.

The takeaway

Garrison's breakout performance off the bench provided a much-needed spark for Kentucky, showcasing his ability to be an X-factor when the Wildcats need it most. His energy and physicality could be a key ingredient as Kentucky looks to make a deep run in the postseason.