Kentucky's NCAA Hopes in Jeopardy After Loss to Alabama

Mark Pope faces mounting criticism as injuries, defensive struggles, and questionable decisions plague the Wildcats' season.

No. 4 Alabama defeated No. 17 Kentucky 96-83, completing a season sweep and putting Kentucky's NCAA tournament chances in doubt.
Kentucky's leading scorer, Otega Oweh, had his worst performance of the season, scoring only two points before fouling out, ending his 26-game double-digit scoring streak.
Head coach Mark Pope is under fire for defensive shortcomings, substitution decisions, and a .500 SEC record, with fans questioning his ability to lead the team to success.
Injuries to key players, including Lamont Butler, Jaxson Robinson, and Kerr Kriisa, have left Kentucky struggling to maintain consistency and depth in their lineup.
Despite a strong offensive start, Kentucky was outscored in key stretches, with Alabama's 29-10 first-half run shifting momentum and exposing Kentucky's defensive vulnerabilities.