CATS ADVANCE WITH AUTHORITY, PUNCH SWEET 16 TICKET

MORGANTOWN, WV - Kentucky Women’s Basketball delivered a complete performance when it mattered most, taking down West Virginia 74-73 to punch their ticket to the Sweet 16.

The Cats leaned on efficiency and physicality, shooting 48.2% from the field while dominating the glass 39-23. Their presence inside set the tone all game, turning rebounds into second-chance points and controlling the pace.

Teonni Key led Kentucky with 19 points on an efficient 9-of-14 shooting night, consistently finishing through contact. Clara Strack was dominant on both ends, posting 18 points, 15 rebounds, and 4 blocks, anchoring the defense and owning the paint. Tonie Morgan added 15 points and 7 assists, controlling the offense and delivering in key moments late.

Kentucky’s defense stepped up when it mattered most. Even with West Virginia knocking down nine threes, the Cats protected the rim and forced tough shots down the stretch. The turning point came in the third quarter, where Kentucky outscored West Virginia 26-14 to build separation.

The poise and discipline of this group stood out. In a tight fourth quarter, Kentucky never lost control, responding to every push and closing the game with confidence.

Kentucky now advances to the Sweet 16, where they will face No. 1 seed Texas.

With the win, Kentucky improves to 25-10 and keeps dancing.

Austin Stuckey, The Stable -- Photo Credit: University of Kentucky Athletics