The Southeastern Conference champion game many believed Big Blue Nation deserved came three weeks later in Kansas City, as the Auburn Tigers and Kentucky Wildcats tipped off their Elite Eight matchup with the winner advancing to next weekend’s Final Four.
With the Tigers’ Chuma Okeke sidelined by an ACL injury, the Wildcats’ suddenly had a clear advantage in the painted area. Specifically, star sophomore PJ Washington stepped up to set the tone in the first half.
Washington followed up his 16-point performance on Friday with 15 first half points against the Tigers, aiding in Kentucky taking a 35-30 lead at halftime.