Key Highlights
- No. 12 Kentucky returns to Rupp Arena on Friday, hosting Loyola (Md.) in a nonconference matchup.
- Kentucky has five players averaging in double figures, led by Denzel Aberdeen and Otega Oweh.
- Loyola is 2-4 this season, most recently falling to Duquesne 92-78.
- Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. ET on November 20, 2025, and the game can be seen on SEC Network Plus.
The Return of Kentucky to Rupp Arena
No. 12 Kentucky returns to the hallowed grounds of Rupp Arena on Friday evening for a nonconference matchup against Loyola (Md.). Head coach Mark Pope is looking forward to leading his team through another challenging game.
According to Pope, “I know there might be some consternation out there, but I love it. I love it when you have to find your way through it and where guys are forced to really not just look at each other and love each other, but lean on each other and bail each other out.” This mindset is crucial as the Cats look to get back in the win column after a tough loss to Michigan State.
Key Players for Kentucky
Kentucky boasts five players averaging in double figures this season. Denzel Aberdeen leads the way with 14.2 points per game, followed by Otega Oweh at 12.8 points and Mo Dioubate at 11.6 points.
Collin Chandler (11.0 ppg) and Malachi Moreno (10.2 ppg) round out the double-digit scorers for Kentucky. Chandler has had a breakout start to the season, with his performance being recognized by ESPN as one of the top plays in SportsCenter’s opening night coverage.
Chandler is also contributing on the boards and from beyond the arc. He has set career-bests with four assists and four made 3-pointers against both Nicholls and Valparaiso, shooting a scorching 52.8 percent (28-53) from three over his last 15 games.
Opposition: Loyola’s Recent Struggles
Loyola is currently 2-4 this season and will be looking to get back on track after a loss to Duquesne. Jacob Theodosiou leads the Greyhounds in scoring with 17.2 points per game.
The matchup between Kentucky and Loyola promises to be an exciting one, with both teams bringing their best to Rupp Arena. The game will air live on SEC Network Plus at 7 p.m. ET on November 20, 2025.
Mark Pope’s Confidence in His Team
Pope remains confident in his team despite the early-season struggles. “This is a good group and I have an unbelievable amount of confidence that we’re going to have a great season here,” he said. However, he also recognizes the need for growth: “I also know for a fact that we have an extraordinary amount of work to do.” The Cats will aim to demonstrate their potential in their upcoming game against Loyola.
The game is set for 7 p.m. ET on November 20, 2025, at Rupp Arena, and fans are encouraged to tune in as Kentucky looks to get back on track. For more updates and coverage, stay tuned to UK Sports Network.
