The Kentucky Wildcats suffered their first defeat of the season Tuesday night, falling 96–88 to Louisville in a rivalry game that had fans on the edge of their seats. But while the final score grabbed headlines, one performance stole the spotlight — Denzel Aberdeen’s breakout night.
The Florida transfer didn’t just score — he commanded the game. Aberdeen poured in a career-high 26 points on 50% shooting, added seven rebounds, three assists, and connected on four of his 10 three-point attempts. His energy and determination sparked Kentucky’s late push, nearly turning the tide against their in-state rivals.
Kentucky struggled early as Louisville set the pace and controlled the boards, but Aberdeen’s relentlessness in the second half kept the Wildcats within striking distance. He hustled for every loose ball, crashed the offensive glass, and knocked down crucial threes that energized the team and the fans. By the time the final buzzer sounded, it was clear that Aberdeen’s performance had turned heads, even in a losing effort.
Mark Pope’s decision to give Aberdeen the starting nod over Pitt transfer Jaland Lowe paid off in a big way. With Lowe still shaking off early-season rust and regaining full health, Aberdeen’s poise and scoring ability gave Kentucky the spark they desperately needed. His breakout could cement a bigger role in the rotation as the season progresses.
“Denzel played with toughness and confidence tonight,” Pope said after the game. “He showed what he can do when he’s aggressive and trusting his game.”
Kentucky moves to 2–1 on the season and will return home to Rupp Arena on Friday, November 14, to face Eastern Illinois at 7 p.m. ET on SECN+. While the loss stings, Aberdeen’s performance gives the Wildcats momentum and a clear reason for optimism as they look ahead.
In a night where the scoreboard favored Louisville, Denzel Aberdeen made one thing clear: sometimes the biggest story isn’t the final score, but the player who refuses to let his team quit.
