No. 17 Kentucky surprises with how it got back on track against Vanderbilt

Although Kentucky allowed 40 points in the first half and appeared to be unable to slow the Commodores down, the Wildcats picked up their intensity and only gave up 21 second-half points in a much-improved defensive effort.

Along with their 41 points after the half, the Wildcats shot an impressive 65.4% from the floor, 50% from deep and scored over one point per possession on average.

This vicious block from guard Otega Oweh late in the first half seemed to ignite a spark in the defense. Afterward, Kentucky outscored Vanderbilt, 46-26, the rest of the way and completely changed the complexion of the game.

While Kentucky was third in the country in points per game (85.9 PPG) entering Wednesday, its defense (76.3 PPG) ranked 277th. Wednesday was only the fourth time in 13 conference games this season that Kentucky has allowed fewer than 70 points in a game, which is something the Wildcats must improve as they go through the SEC gauntlet.

In addition to the block, Oweh had 20 points (7-of-10 FG) and seven rebounds. Senior Amari Williams continued his consistent play with 17 points (6-of-6 FG, 5-of-5 FT). That followed a triple-double against then-No. 25 Ole Miss on Feb. 4 and an 18-point, 12-rebound performance against Texas on Saturday.

An encouraging sign for Kentucky was graduate senior Andrew Carr's performance. Since the beginning of the month, Carr had only scored 10 or more points once prior to Wednesday night after battling through a back injury. Against Vanderbilt, Carr had 11 points (5-of-8 FG) and hit this three from the corner to extend Kentucky's lead to double figures over seven minutes into the second half.

Forward Ansley Almonor gave the Wildcats nine points (3-of-5 3PT) off the bench, including this corner triple to put Kentucky up 79-56.

Along with a perfect night from the charity stripe (13-of-13) and 11 threes — one above their average of 10 this season — the Wildcats returned to form. As Kentucky continues to play short-handed with guards Kerr Kriisa (foot), Lamont Butler (left shoulder) and Jaxson Robinson (right hand) missing action, improved defense and rebounding continue to be critical.

Kentucky gave up 11 offensive rebounds to Vanderbilt, which could continue to be a problem going forward if the shots are not falling. With three of Kentucky's final five games against three ranked opponents, the Wildcats (18-8, 7-6 SEC) showed some positive signs by avenging an earlier season loss to Vanderbilt on Wednesday and will need to build off that performance with a tough slate of games coming up.