
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, the Georgia Bulldogs secured a significant victory over the No. 6 Kentucky Wildcats, winning 82-69 at Stegeman Coliseum in Athens on January 7, 2025.
This triumph marks Georgia’s first win against a top-10 opponent since January 2020, signaling a potential turning point under third-year head coach Mike White.
Freshman forward Asa Newell led the Bulldogs with 17 points, showcasing his versatility with powerful dunks and two three-pointers. He also contributed defensively with seven rebounds, a block, and a steal, playing a crucial role in containing Kentucky’s formidable frontcourt. Newell’s performance underscores his growing importance to the team, as he has led Georgia in scoring multiple times this season.
Supporting Newell, guards Blue Cain and Silas Demary Jr. added 15 and 14 points, respectively. Cain’s all-around performance included eight rebounds, while Demary’s aggressive play earned him eight successful free throws, contributing to Georgia’s significant advantage at the foul line. The Bulldogs capitalized on their opportunities, outscoring the Wildcats 29-15 in free throws, a disparity that proved pivotal in the game’s outcome.
Georgia’s defense was instrumental in the victory, limiting Kentucky to 69 points, well below their season average of over 90 points per game. The Bulldogs’ physical play led to foul trouble for key Kentucky players, with Amari Williams and Andrew Carr each accumulating four fouls, which hindered the Wildcats’ offensive rhythm.
The game’s momentum shifted decisively in Georgia’s favor during the latter part of the first half. A 19-7 scoring run allowed the Bulldogs to enter halftime with a 47-34 lead. Newell punctuated this surge with a buzzer-beating three-pointer, electrifying the home crowd and setting the tone for the second half.
Despite a brief rally from Kentucky, which reduced the deficit to five points, Georgia maintained composure. Strategic free-throw shooting and timely defensive stops enabled the Bulldogs to preserve and eventually extend their lead, culminating in a 13-point victory.
Coach Mike White praised his team’s defensive effort and resilience, highlighting the leadership of his backcourt players. He noted, “Our guys have embraced trying to be the best defensive team we can be,” reflecting a commitment to a defense-first mentality that stifled one of the nation’s most potent offenses.
This victory not only enhances Georgia’s season record to 13-2 but also serves as a statement to the rest of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). With upcoming games against ranked opponents, including a home matchup against No. 12 Oklahoma, the Bulldogs have an opportunity to build on this momentum and potentially secure a spot in the AP rankings for the first time since 2011.
For Kentucky, the loss underscores areas needing improvement, particularly in physicality and discipline. Senior forward Andrew Carr emphasized the need for the Wildcats to adopt a tougher, more aggressive approach in future games to compete effectively in the highly competitive SEC.
In summary, Georgia’s upset over Kentucky highlights a significant milestone in the Bulldogs’ season, showcasing their growth under Coach White and setting the stage for a potentially transformative period in the program’s trajectory.