We are underway in Indianapolis for the first of two Sweet 16 matchups at Lucas Oil Stadium on Friday night.
First up, we’ll have an all-SEC showdown as No. 3 Kentucky and No. 2 Tennessee square off for the first time in the NCAA Tournament with a trip to the Elite Eight on the line.
Kentucky’s already conquered Tennessee twice this season, fueled by shooting a blistering 50% (12-for-24) from three-point range in those matchups. Tennessee, meanwhile, has struggled offensively against the Wildcats, shooting just 22.2% (14-for-63) from beyond the arc across both losses.
The Wildcats are attempting to advance to a NCAA-leading 35th Elite Eight, and first under head coach Mark Pope, who replaced the iconic John Calipari.
They’ll turn to all-SEC Second Team selection Otega Oweh, who’s scored at least 15 points in each of their first two round games.
For the Volunteers, they’ll be looking to punch their ticket to the Elite Eight for a second consecutive season.
The winner will play against either No. 1 Houston or No. 4 Purdue on Sunday.
