Kentucky vs Alabama Picks and Prediction – 2/22/2025

No. 4 Alabama looks to snap a two-game losing streak as it hosts No. 17 Kentucky in a crucial SEC battle. The Wildcats are coming off an 82-61 win over Vanderbilt, while the Crimson Tide suffered a 110-98 road loss to Missouri. Kentucky has won three of its last five, while Alabama has dropped back-to-back games. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Kentucky enters the game scoring 85.8 points per contest while shooting 48.6% from the field. Otega Oweh leads the offense with 16.2 points per game, while Amari Williams contributes 8.7 rebounds and 2.9 assists. The Wildcats have been solid in distributing the ball, averaging 17.3 assists per game. 

Defensively, Kentucky allows 75.7 points per game while holding opponents to 39.3 rebounds. Williams leads in blocks (1.4), and Oweh in steals (1.5), giving them some interior and perimeter defensive presence. However, the ability to slow down Alabama’s scoring will be key, as the Crimson Tide ranks among the best offensive teams in the nation.

Alabama continues to push the pace, averaging 90.6 points per game on 48.2% shooting. Mark Sears, fresh off a 35-point performance, leads the team with 18.5 points and 4.8 assists per contest. Grant Nelson controls the boards with 8.1 rebounds per game, giving Alabama an edge inside. Despite losing the last two, they remain a dangerous offensive team at home.

Defensively, Alabama gives up 80.3 points per game, which has been a concern in recent losses. They average 44.0 rebounds per game, led by Nelson, while also producing 4.8 blocks and 5.9 steals. If they can limit Kentucky’s transition game and force contested shots, they’ll have a strong chance to bounce back.

Alabama’s offensive firepower should be too much for Kentucky, especially at home where they play with more confidence. Sears has been on fire, and with Nelson controlling the boards, they should dominate the pace. Kentucky’s defense has been inconsistent, and Alabama’s ability to push the tempo will create problems. Expect a high-scoring game but Alabama to pull away. Final Score Prediction: Alabama wins and covers 91-80.