LEXINGTON - Kentucky is set to close out its nonconference schedule this afternoon with an in-state showdown at Rupp Arena, hosting Bellarmine in a matchup that brings more than just proximity-it brings a chance to fine-tune before the grind of SEC play begins.
This marks just the second-ever meeting between the Wildcats and the Knights. The last time these two squared off, back in November 2022, Kentucky controlled the game from start to finish in a 60-41 win. Expect a different tempo this time around, with both teams now more seasoned and Kentucky looking to build momentum heading into conference play.
Under head coach Mark Pope, the Wildcats have found their rhythm lately, riding a three-game win streak into today’s matchup and sitting at 8-4 on the season. The record doesn’t tell the whole story, though.
This team has shown flashes of high-level play, and Pope’s group is starting to gel at the right time. The chemistry is building, the rotations are tightening, and the energy on both ends of the floor is trending upward.
Bellarmine, meanwhile, enters at 5-6 and still searching for a signature win. The Knights have faced three power-conference opponents this season-Georgia, Kansas State, and Notre Dame-and came up short in each.
But don’t let that fool you into thinking they’ll roll over. Against Notre Dame, Bellarmine trailed by 22 late in the second half and nearly pulled off a stunning comeback, trimming the deficit to just five with under 20 seconds left before falling 86-79.
That kind of resilience speaks volumes about the fight in this group.
Kentucky remains unranked in both major national polls, but it is receiving votes in the AP Top 25 and the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll. That tells you where this team stands-on the cusp. A strong performance today, followed by a solid start in SEC play, could push the Wildcats back into the national conversation.
Tip-off Details:
- Time: 1 p.m.
ET
- Location: Rupp Arena, Lexington, KY
How to Watch: This one won’t be on traditional TV. Fans will need to stream it live via SEC Network+, available through the WatchESPN app, WatchESPN.com, or ESPN+ (subscription required).
Betting Line: Kentucky is a heavy favorite, listed at -35.5 on DraftKings, with the over/under set at 153.5 points. That spread reflects the expected talent gap, but as Bellarmine showed against Notre Dame, they’re not afraid to punch above their weight.
Radio Broadcast: For fans tuning in on the radio, Tom Leach will handle play-by-play duties with Jack “Goose” Givens providing analysis. The broadcast will air on 840 AM in Louisville, 630 AM and 98.1 FM in Lexington, and is also available via UKAthletics.com.
As Kentucky wraps up its nonconference slate, today’s game is about more than just the scoreboard. It’s a chance to sharpen execution, build confidence, and keep stacking wins before the real tests begin. Bellarmine may not have the name recognition of an SEC opponent, but they’ll bring intensity-and if Kentucky isn’t locked in, this could be closer than expected.