Match Overview
In a tightly contested match on Thursday evening, the 16th-ranked Kentucky Wildcats triumphed over the Auburn Tigers with a score of 63-56 in Auburn, Alabama.
Standout Performers
The standout player for Kentucky was Amelia Hassett, who showcased her long-range shooting ability by hitting five 3-pointers, contributing a total of 15 points while also securing six rebounds and blocking two shots.
Notably, Clara Strack continued to solidify her prowess in defense, scoring 12 points and matching her scoring effort with five rebounds and two blocks. Strack, who began the game ranked second in the nation for blocks with a remarkable 75, has already shattered Kentucky’s previous record of 73 blocks that she set last season.
Teonni Key added 11 points along with nine rebounds, and teammate Morgan Tonie also recorded 11 points, complementing her score with four assists.
Game Highlights
The Wildcats initiated the game with a powerful 14-3 start, ultimately leading 35-27 at halftime. After halftime, Auburn managed to reduce the deficit to six points, but Kentucky responded with another effective 14-3 stretch that extended their lead to as much as 19 points. In the closing minutes, the Tigers made a spirited comeback, finishing the game with a 14-2 run but fell short.
Auburn’s Efforts
For Auburn, Khady Leye delivered a strong performance with 20 points and eight rebounds, while Harissoum Coulibaly contributed 13 points. On the defensive side, Kaitlyn Duhon was a standout with five steals, helping her team to a significant advantage in turnovers, 17-8, and in points off those turnovers, 15-9. Despite the loss, Auburn’s effort was commendable.
Final Statistics
Kentucky finished the game by dominating the boards, out-rebounding Auburn 37-26 and posting a shooting percentage of 46% (24 of 52) compared to Auburn’s 39% (22 of 57).
Looking Ahead
As the Wildcats prepare for their final regular-season game on Sunday against the highly-ranked No. 3 South Carolina, Auburn will conclude their season with a matchup against Arkansas.
