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Kentucky off to worst start to SEC play in 20 years

January 9, 2026 by Zags Blog

By JAMES MADDEN

Kentucky fell to 0-2 in SEC play for the first time since 2006, following its 73-68 loss to Missouri on Wednesday.

After spending reportedly around $22 million on its roster, the Wildcats have fallen to 9-6 on the season overall.

“It’s tough and not the way we intended to start SEC. When you go through hard times, and everybody does, the question is: ‘How much does it take to break you?’,” Kentucky head coach Mark Pope told reporters postgame. “The only thing you can do is grieve as quickly as possible and move on to the next incredibly challenging game. BBN has the right to do, and say and act however they want. They’re the greatest fans in the world.”

Pope is in his second season with the Wildcats and is facing his largest adversity so far. He is 33-18 overall since taking over in Lexington and saw his team reach the Sweet Sixteen in last season’s NCAA Tournament.

Kentucky will have another test on Saturday when it hosts Mississippi State, who has started a perfect 2-0 in SEC play.

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The post Kentucky off to worst start to SEC play in 20 years appeared first on Zagsblog.

Filed Under: Univ of Kentucky

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