When Kentucky defeated Louisville 93-85 in the latest chapter of the Battle of the Bluegrass, there was no debate over who deserved to be named the game’s Most Valuable Player. Lamont Butler delivered a performance for the ages, securing the MVP belt after putting up a career-high 33 points in a dazzling display that has Big Blue Nation singing his praises.
The buildup to Butler’s heroic performance carried its own layer of drama. Heading into the game, his status was uncertain due to an ankle injury sustained against Clemson. But instead of sitting out, Butler not only played—he dominated. Over 32 minutes of action, Butler was a perfect 10-for-10 from the floor, including a flawless 6-for-6 from beyond the arc, while also contributing six assists, three rebounds, and three turnovers. His 100% field-goal shooting performance makes him only the second SEC player in the last two decades to notch 30 or more points without a single miss from the field, according to ESPN.
What makes Butler’s achievement even more remarkable is the context of his return. After missing two games to nurse his injury, there was no chance he was going to sit out a rivalry as significant as this one. And he didn’t just show up—he delivered one of the most efficient and impactful performances in the history of the Bluegrass rivalry, cementing himself as yet another “Cardinal killer” in Kentucky lore.
Pat Kelsey, Louisville’s head coach, was all too familiar with Butler’s ability to rise to the occasion. Speaking to reporters after the game, Kelsey reflected on his previous encounters with the Kentucky star, including a tense first-round NCAA Tournament matchup when Kelsey was coaching at the College of Charleston and Butler was leading San Diego State.
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“Lamont Butler was magnificent,” Kelsey said, shaking his head. “I still see that kid in my nightmares. Back then, he was just as fearless, just as relentless. He’s a winner, plain and simple.”
Kentucky head coach Mark Pope had already sung Butler’s praises before the game, speaking about the mindset that has fueled his success throughout his career.
“He just wants to win,” Pope said. “When you come into a game focused purely on winning, you bring a level of pureness to the game, and it rewards you for that. It’s not about the points, or the shots, or the minutes—it’s about the will to win. Lamont’s been that way his whole career, and it’s why he keeps getting better and better. Tonight, we saw the beauty of that.”
Lamont Butler was PERFECT from the field against Louisville🔥
▪️ 33 PTS
▪️ 10-10 FG
▪️ 6-6 3PT
▪️ 6 AST pic.twitter.com/PSNU6wMi0k— B/R Hoops (@brhoops) December 15, 2024
Butler’s performance not only fueled Kentucky’s victory but also added to the already storied history of the Battle of the Bluegrass. His clutch shooting, unwavering determination, and seamless efficiency were on full display, making it clear why he’s earned MVP honors.
For Kentucky fans, Butler’s masterpiece will be remembered as one of the great individual performances in the rivalry, further solidifying his place in the hearts of Big Blue Nation. As the Wildcats continue their march through the season, one thing is clear: with Lamont Butler leading the way, this team has the grit, talent, and composure to tackle any challenge in its path.