Kentucky vs. Tennessee
Kentucky vs. Tennessee: Few rivalries in college basketball compare to the one between the Kentucky Wildcats and Tennessee Volunteers. This one is often referred to as the “Battle for the Bluegrass” and has been the scene of passionate fans and lore-filled legendary coaches and players for centuries.
A Rivalry For The Ages
This rivalry dates back to the early 20th century when both programs were establishing themselves as college basketball powers. And in the years since with the schools sharing a league, and the fans packing arenas it’s only intensified.
Legendary Coaches and Players
Truly, the rivalry has been forged in the metal of legendary coaches for both Kentucky and Tennessee. When considering the history of college basketball, especially in the games earlier days, there aren’t many names bigger than Adolph Rupp of Kentucky and Ray Mears of Tennessee. Recent additions to the rivalry include coaches Rick Pitino, Tubby Smith and John Calipari.
which has given rise to bunch of legendary players. While Kentucky is home to a number of NBA stars, including Anthony Davis and Karl-Anthony Towns, even names like Booker. Tennessee can lay claim to some very talented players themselves, Allan Houston, Chris Lofton and Tobias Harris.
Famous Events and Feuds
There have been plenty of great moments in this rivalry, and plenty of intense games between these two teams. Some of the most notable:
- Elite Eight 1998: A memorable game that ended in overtime and punched Kentucky’s ticket to the Final Four
- 2014 Regular Season: This was a close top-10 matchup, and Kentucky squeaked out the win.
- SEC Tournament Semifinal, 2019: It’s a fun game that captured the death knell of the rivalry in a physical battle.
The rivalry has also seeped off the court into recruiting wars, coaching matchups and fan debates. Similarly, the nature of the rivalry is often intensified through various play styles of the two teams. Kentucky with the flashy offense and size in the middle, Tennessee with the rough and tumble defense.
It will only get better. Both programs will be good. Again. Forever. 😜️👊️🏀
