The homegrown talent shows out in a major win for Kentucky.
In a thrilling showdown at Rupp Arena, No. 15 Kentucky basketball secured a statement 74-65 victory over No. 5 Tennessee, fueled in part by the standout performances of two homegrown freshmen, Travis Perry and Trent Noah.
The pair, both native sons of the Bluegrass State, delivered career-best outings, proving their value on a big stage.
Perry, a sharpshooter from Lyon County, stepped up with a career-high eight points (3/4 shooting) in just 12 minutes of action. His confidence and efficiency were on display as he capitalized on his opportunities, showing why he was one of the most decorated high school players in Kentucky history.
Meanwhile, Noah, a versatile wing from Harlan County, had an even bigger night, dropping 11 points (3/4 shooting) in 19 minutes — both career highs — while adding two rebounds and an assist. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor provided a key spark for the Wildcats.
This comes after Noah went for a previous career-best five points on 2/2 shooting (1/1 from deep) in the road win in Knoxville.
With veteran guard Lamont Butler suffering yet another injury late in the second half, Perry may have to take on an even larger role moving forward. Butler’s status remains uncertain, and if he misses time, Perry could see increased minutes at the point guard position. Given his poise and scoring ability, he may be exactly what Kentucky needs to help fill the void.
And with Jaxson Robinson out for the foreseeable future, Noah will continue to see extended minutes as he did in this one. Even if he has some growing pains, Noah is going to see extended minutes each game for the foreseeable future, and he’s certainly earned it.
For Wildcats fans, seeing two Kentucky-born players shine in a top-15 matchup makes this victory even sweeter. As the season progresses, Perry and Noah’s development will be crucial to Kentucky’s success—and their performances against Tennessee suggest they’re more than ready for the challenge.
Wow… what a special clip as Mark Pope talks about Trent Noah.
He gives a shoutout to Eastern Kentucky, Trent’s family, his community, and of course Tent himself…
Wow… ️ ️ #606 pic.twitter.com/EzAvfh6x5f
— Dylan Ballard (@DylanBallard_UK) February 12, 2025
Trent Noah celebrates another great game against the Vols… this time with a T-shirt gun #BBN pic.twitter.com/m6Dc45JbMP
— BBN Tonight (@BBNTonight) February 12, 2025
Trent Noah says he grew up so close to Knoxville his mom got her hair done there.
Trent says his family have always been Wildcats through and through.
He said that he wants to BBN to call his mother “The Mountain Momma” pic.twitter.com/61A0cMR0JZ
— Dylan Ballard (@DylanBallard_UK) February 12, 2025
.@Travis_Perry11 from way back
– ESPN pic.twitter.com/fab17DVehR
— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) February 12, 2025
Trent Noah speaks with the media after the game ️ ️ ️ pic.twitter.com/OLHgCk3bx5
— Dylan Ballard (@DylanBallard_UK) February 12, 2025
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