Kentucky’s Latest Update: How does Tennessee feel about facing Kentucky for the third time this season in the Sweet 16, especially with Kentucky’s star player, Jaxson Robinson , sidelined for this crucial matchup?

A highly anticipated men’s college basketball matchup is set to take place as Kentucky and Tennessee prepare to meet in the NCAA Tournament for the first time. The No. 3 seed Wildcats will face the No. 2 seed Volunteers on Friday night at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis for a Sweet 16 showdown in the Midwest Regional. The game brings plenty of excitement, especially since it will mark the third time these teams have clashed this season. So far, Kentucky has claimed victory in both prior meetings.

Their first encounter on January 28 in Knoxville saw Kentucky secure a 78-73 road win despite missing starting point guard Lamont Butler due to a shoulder injury. Additionally, fifth-year forward Andrew Carr had very limited playing time. Tennessee’s struggles from beyond the arc played a major role in the outcome, as the Volunteers shot just 24.4% (11-for-45) from three-point range.

The second matchup, held on February 11 in Lexington, resulted in another Kentucky win, this time by a score of 75-64. The Wildcats prevailed despite being without Jaxson Robinson, a fifth-year guard who is out for the season with a wrist injury, and losing Butler again in the second half after he reinjured his shoulder. Tennessee continued to struggle with long-range shooting, making just 16.7% (3-for-18) of their three-point attempts.

With those losses in mind, Tennessee has extra motivation to finally turn the tables on its rival, especially with a trip to the Elite Eight at stake. However, the Volunteers are not fueling the rivalry with any public comments. They advanced to the Sweet 16 after a strong performance in the tournament’s opening rounds at Rupp Arena in Lexington, defeating No. 15 seed Wofford by 15 points and No. 7 seed UCLA by nine points.

When asked about the possibility of facing Kentucky for a third time, Tennessee players downplayed any additional motivation. Junior forward Felix Okpara acknowledged that beating Kentucky would be nice but emphasized that they are ready for any challenge. Sophomore forward Cade Phillips noted that while the matchup would be great for television, they are excited regardless of the opponent. Senior guard Jahmai Mashack expressed a competitive mindset, stating that he is prepared to take on any team that stands in his way.

With history, rivalry, and a spot in the Elite Eight on the line, Friday’s game promises to be an intense battle between two powerhouse programs.