In a thrilling college basketball matchup on December 14, 2024, the Kentucky Wildcats secured a 93-85 victory over the Louisville Cardinals at Rupp Arena. The game was notable not only for its high-scoring action but also for a brief scuffle that occurred near the Louisville bench.
The incident unfolded with just under five minutes remaining in the game when Louisville’s Reyne Smith and Kentucky’s Brandon Garrison both dove for a loose ball near the Cardinals’ bench. As Garrison stumbled onto the bench, a brief shoving match ensued, escalating tensions on the court. Both head coaches, Mark Pope of Kentucky and Pat Kelsey of Louisville, quickly intervened to de-escalate the situation, ensuring it did not escalate further.
Reflecting on the incident, Coach Pope remarked, “It wouldn’t have been an appropriate game if it wasn’t a tension-filled mosh pit down in front of their bench. That was probably the most fun part of the game, right?” He emphasized the intense passion both programs have for winning and the significance of such moments in the rivalry.
The scuffle energized the Rupp Arena crowd, which grew noticeably louder afterward. Kentucky responded with a strong performance, with fifth-year senior point guard Lamont Butler leading the team with a career-high 33 points, going a perfect 10 of 10 from the floor and 6 of 6 from beyond the arc. The Wildcats’ offense was efficient, shooting 58.2% from the field and 52.4% from three-point range, and they dominated in assists with 23 compared to Louisville’s eight.
This victory extended Kentucky’s winning streak in the rivalry, maintaining their dominance at home against Louisville, having not lost to them at Rupp Arena since 2008.
