Kentucky Wildcats Forward Ends Scoreless Streak on Memorable Night.
Kentucky forward Ansley Almonor has had an inconsistent stretch toward the end of the regular season, not scoring in his last three games. However, his standout performance on Senior Night against LSU showed that he remains a valuable contributor for the Wildcats as they enter postseason play.
Almonor was exceptional in Kentucky’s dominant 95-64 win over LSU on Tuesday, registering 19 points on 6-for-7 shooting, including 3-for-4 from three-point range. This marked his most minutes in weeks, as he played 19 minutes against LSU.
“I thought he was outstanding,” head coach Mark Pope said after the win. “Ansley, my goodness, what a season he’s had. For a guy who never imagined wearing a Kentucky jersey, think of the big moments he’s provided for us. He’s going to play a big role down the stretch. You see it all the time.”
This performance was crucial for Almonor, who had struggled in the previous three games. He was kept scoreless in matches against Auburn, Oklahoma, and Alabama, unable to score even a single point despite getting playing time. This stretch of inconsistency had been frustrating, but his game against LSU reminded everyone of his potential when he’s fully focused.
“He had three or four quiet, below-average games for his standards,” Pope added. “And sometimes the pressure starts to build, but he did a great job tonight of shaking it off, saying, I’m going to be a baller—make or miss, I’m going to play.”
Almonor’s energy and intensity against LSU were just what the Wildcats needed as they looked to build momentum for the postseason. With Kentucky’s depth being tested, especially with injuries impacting the rotation, his ability to be a scoring threat is vital for the team’s success.
Despite recent struggles, Almonor has consistently shown throughout the season that he can deliver when it counts. As Kentucky prepares for their final regular-season game against Missouri and the SEC Tournament, the Wildcats will need him to carry over his Senior Night performance and become a key player once more. If Almonor can regain his confidence and consistency, he could become an X-factor for Kentucky’s postseason, potentially helping the Wildcats reach the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament for the first time since the 2018-2019 season.