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Alabama Dominates Kentucky 89-74 in SEC Opener

1/3/2026

35 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Alabama defeated Kentucky 89-74 in the SEC opener on January 3, 2026, extending its winning streak against Kentucky to four games.
Alabama's 15 of 38 three-pointers mark the most Kentucky has allowed in Mark Pope's tenure.
Aden Holloway led Alabama with 26 points.
Labaron Philon added 17 points despite foul trouble.
Otega Oweh and Jaland Lowe scored 22 and 21 points for Kentucky, respectively, though the Wildcats fell to 9-5.

History

Historical Context

In 1990, the UNLV Runnin' Rebels claimed their first NCAA Basketball Championship by defeating Duke 103-73, capping a stellar season with a 30-5 record. This victory underscored UNLV's dominance in college basketball, while Alabama's recent four-game winning streak against Kentucky reflects the ongoing evolution of competitive rivalries within the SEC, highlighting the sport's dynamic landscape.

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Story summary

Alabama defeated Kentucky 89-74 in the SEC opener on January 3, 2026, extending its winning streak against Kentucky to four games.
Alabama's 15 of 38 three-pointers mark the most Kentucky has allowed in Mark Pope's tenure.
Aden Holloway led Alabama with 26 points.
Labaron Philon added 17 points despite foul trouble.
Otega Oweh and Jaland Lowe scored 22 and 21 points for Kentucky, respectively, though the Wildcats fell to 9-5.

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