#9 Kentucky vs Vanderbilt NCAAB Pick: Vandy Aims For Statement Victory (Jan 25)

• Kentucky came up short against Alabama last week, losing by a score of 102-97.
• Vanderbilt fell to Alabama last week too, losing 103-87 in their most recent game.
• These two teams last met on March 6, 2024, in a game that Kentucky won 93-77.

The college basketball season is heating up as March nears! In our Kentucky vs Vanderbilt pick, two top SEC teams face off. Both are aiming to bounce back from poor defensive results against Alabama.

Kentucky Remains in the Top-10

Kentucky was unable to hold off Alabama’s offense on Saturday. The loss dropped them to 4-3 in the last seven games and 3-2 in SEC play. Even so, the Wildcats remain highly ranked. Picking up ranked wins over Mississippi State and Texas A&M certainly helped their case. They face another tough test here.

Kentucky may have been outscored by Alabama, but they boast an impressive offense of their own. Ranked #2 in the country, the Wildcats average 89.2 points per game. Yet, their leading-scorer Otega Oweh averages just 15.7 ppg. This illustrates just how deep their roster is, with multiple capable scorers.

Vanderbilt Having a Great Year

Vanderbilt hasn’t made the NCAA Tournament since 2017, but has had a strong start to this season. They sit firmly on the bubble with a KenPom ranking of 48. Last week, the Commodores earned a notable win over Tennessee, before losing to Alabama. They’ll be seeking another ranked win against Kentucky.

1st-year head coach Mark Byington has helped to turn Vanderbilt around. He recruited key transfers in AJ Hoggard from Michigan State and Jason Edwards from North Texas. Both have been crucial to the Commodores on both sides of the ball. Their defense will be put to the test against the Wildcats.

Kentucky Wildcats vs Vanderbilt Commodores Pick

Kentucky and Vanderbilt had a common opponent last week in Alabama, both allowing over 100 points and being defeated. The Wildcats played a closer game, but also had home-court advantage. I’d favor them slightly over Vanderbilt on a neutral court. That being said, the Commodores should have the advantage at home in this game. I see them testing Kentucky’s offense and winning a very close game.