The Kentucky Wildcats defeated the Illinois Fighting Illini 84-75 in the second round of the NCAA Tournament on March 23, 2025, at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. This victory propelled Kentucky to the Sweet 16, marking their first appearance since 2019.
Game Highlights:
- Kentucky Wildcats:
- Koby Brea: Led the team with 23 points and six rebounds.
- Lamont Butler: Contributed 14 points and five assists.
- Amari Williams: Provided significant defensive plays.
- Illinois Fighting Illini:
- Kylan Boswell: Scored a team-high 23 points, adding three rebounds and six assists.
- Tomislav Ivisic: Added 19 points, including five 3-pointers, and grabbed six rebounds.
- Kasparas Jakucionis: Contributed 13 points, five rebounds, and two assists, tying the Illinois freshman scoring record with 494 points.
Kentucky’s defense was pivotal, forcing 14 turnovers while committing only five. The Wildcats will face the Tennessee Volunteers in the Sweet 16 on March 28, 2025, in Indianapolis.