Kentucky Wildcats vs
Tennessee VolunteersPredictions & Preview

Kentucky and Tennessee Prepare for Epic Sweet 16 Showdown in Midwest Region - Who Will Come Out on Top?

The upcoming Sweet 16 matchup between the third-seeded Kentucky and second-seeded Tennessee in the Midwest Region is highly anticipated. In their previous games, Kentucky defeated Illinois as an underdog, while Tennessee emerged victorious against UCLA as a favorite. Kentucky has historically dominated the series against Tennessee and has won the last three meetings. Although Tennessee is the favorite in this matchup with a -4.5 point spread that has remained unchanged, both teams are expected to put up a strong fight. Stay tuned for the highly anticipated game on Friday night in Indianapolis.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Wildcats +165 | Volunteers -195
• Spread: Wildcats +4.5 (-110) | Volunteers -4.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 144.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Tennessee will win straight-up is 66%.

Kentucky vs Tennessee Stats

Kentucky Wildcats

Kentucky secured their spot in the Sweet 16 by defeating Illinois in their second round matchup, showcasing a strong offensive performance led by Koby Brea. The Wildcats, with a record of 24-11 this season, are ranked 6th in scoring offense in the nation, averaging 85 points per game. Defensively, they have struggled, allowing an average of 77.2 points per game. Kentucky has strong rebounding and assist numbers, ranking in the top 35 in both categories. Despite injuries to key players like Kerr Kriisa and Jaxson Robinson, Kentucky has maintained a solid shooting percentage and efficiency on both ends of the court.

Tennessee Volunteers Analysis

The Tennessee Volunteers secured their spot in the Sweet 16 by defeating UCLA in the second round. They finished the season with a 29-7 record and placed fourth in the SEC with a 12-6 conference record. The Volunteers displayed strong offensive and defensive capabilities in the game, shooting 42.9% from the field, winning the rebounding battle 36-26, and holding UCLA to just 25 points in the first half. Chaz Lanier led the team with 20 points in the match. Throughout the season, Tennessee has shown strength in scoring, rebounding, and defense, ranking 154th in scoring offense, 8th in scoring defense, and 35th overall. They shoot 45.5% from the field as a team, make 8.4 three-pointers per game, and excel at the free throw line shooting 74.4%. Defensively, they limit opponents to 38.28% shooting from the field and 28.28% from beyond the arc. Overall, the Volunteers have proven themselves as a formidable force in college basketball this season.

Kentucky vs Tennessee: A Third Showdown with High Stakes

The upcoming matchup between Kentucky and Tennessee will mark their third meeting of the season, presenting a formidable challenge for both teams. Kentucky has secured victories against Troy and Illinois, yet their strength has notably diminished following Robinson's departure from the team. Conversely, Tennessee has demonstrated an impressive defensive prowess, exemplified by their ability to effectively contain UCLA in a recent matchup. Despite Tennessee's defensive efficiency, they have struggled against Kentucky, allowing 75 and 78 points in their previous encounters. Tennessee's subpar three-point shooting performance in their meetings with Kentucky, combined with Kentucky's impressive 50% shooting from beyond the arc, underscores a potential weakness for Tennessee. With these factors in mind, it may be prudent to consider backing Kentucky with the points, and perhaps even taking a chance on their moneyline.

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