Kentucky Wildcats Host Missouri Tigers in SEC Home Opener
Lexington, January 7, 2026 – The Kentucky Wildcats (9-5, 0-1 SEC) return to Rupp Arena for their conference home opener against the Missouri Tigers (11-3, 1-0 SEC) at 7:00 PM ET on ESPN2. Kentucky is seeking its first SEC win after a 89-74 loss to Alabama, while Missouri rides momentum from a 76-74 victory over Florida. Early in the game, the score is tied at 6-6 after the first media timeout.
Game Preview and Key Matchups
Kentucky, led by coach Mark Pope, faces a critical test to bolster its postseason resume. The Wildcats boast a home advantage, having won all previous meetings against Missouri in Lexington. Missouri, under coach Dennis Gates, has shown resilience, winning close games and featuring guards like Anthony Robinson II and Jayden Stone. Kentucky’s starting lineup includes guards Otega Oweh, Denzel Aberdeen, and Jaland Lowe, along with forwards Jayden Quaintance and Mouhamed Dioubate. Missouri counters with guards Anthony Robinson II and Jayden Stone, forwards Jacob Crews and Mark Mitchell, and center Shawn Phillips Jr.
Jaland Lowe, despite a shoulder injury that makes every game a risk, is starting and aims to provide scoring punch. Missouri forward Jevon Porter is out with a leg injury for the third straight game, but all other players are available. Kentucky is favored by 13.5 points with an over/under of 151.5.
Key Facts and Stats
| Team | Record | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky Wildcats | 9-5 (0-1 SEC) | 84.1 | 43.1 | 17.6 |
| Missouri Tigers | 11-3 (1-0 SEC) | 83.2 | 41.1 | 14.8 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the game?
The game is at 7:00 PM ET on January 7, 2026, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky, and airs on ESPN2.
What are the betting odds?
Kentucky is a 13.5-point favorite with an over/under of 151.5 points.
Who is injured?
Missouri forward Jevon Porter is out due to a leg injury. Kentucky guard Jaland Lowe is playing through a shoulder issue.