Kentucky, Tennessee Clash for Elite Eight Spot in Indianapolis

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Kentucky Wildcats are set to face the Tennessee Volunteers in a highly anticipated NCAA tournament Sweet 16 matchup on March 28, 2025, at Lucas Oil Stadium. This marks Kentucky’s return to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2019, as they seek to secure a spot in the Final Four.

After a strong performance in the earlier rounds, where Kentucky defeated Illinois to eliminate the last remaining perfect bracket, they now face a familiar foe: a Tennessee team they have already swept in the regular season. However, the challenge lies in the difficulty of beating a team three times in one season.

“Having won both matchups this year gives us confidence, but we know we can’t underestimate them,” said Kentucky guard Chaz Lanier. “They are a tough team and playing them a third time is a different ball game.”

Tennessee enters the game after a commanding tournament run, dispatching both Wofford and UCLA with ease. The Volunteers have established themselves as a formidable force in the Sweet 16 for the third consecutive year.

Key to Tennessee’s success is their leading scorer, Chaz Lanier, averaging over 18 points per game on 41% shooting from beyond the arc. However, against Kentucky earlier this season, Lanier struggled, scoring an average of only 12.5 points per game with a shooting percentage of just 17.6% from three-point range. Kentucky defenders Otega Oweh and Koby Brea have effectively limited his scoring opportunities by forcing him to drive towards the basket.

Kentucky’s offensive success will hinge on their shooting from beyond the arc. In two previous victories over Tennessee this season, the Wildcats shot an impressive 50% from three-point range. They have maintained a solid shooting percentage of 38% in this tournament, which will be critical for their chances of advancing.

Moreover, Kentucky has significantly improved their turnover rate, having averaged less than 10 turnovers in recent games since a loss to Auburn. They will need to protect the ball and capitalize on their offensive possessions, particularly as they aim to overcome Tennessee’s robust defense.

“We know we can’t give them extra possessions, especially with how critical every point is in the tournament,” said Kentucky coach John Calipari. “Taking care of the ball will be essential if we want to advance.”

Free throw shooting has also been a point of concern for Kentucky, who posted a 61% success rate during the first weekend of the tournament. Historically, they have lost tightly contested games due to poor free throw performance, something they must improve upon.

The Wildcats’ upcoming showdown against the Volunteers is scheduled for 7:39 PM ET, and fans can watch the action live on TBS and TruTV. Radio coverage will be provided by Tom Leach and Jack Givens.

As the game approaches, odds show Tennessee favored by 4.5 points with an over/under of 144.5. Metrics indicate that Kentucky has roughly a one-in-three chance of advancing to the Elite Eight. Analysts predict a close matchup, with scores forecasted ranging from a narrow Kentucky victory of 76-71 to projected losses of varying margins.

“I believe in our team, and I’m going with a 76-71 victory for Kentucky,” Lanier asserted. Fans are encouraged to share their predictions as the excitement builds for this vital tournament clash. Go Cats!