Brad Underwood: Kentucky will go as far as Lamont Butler will take them

Kentucky has survived shorthanded on multiple occasions in Mark Pope’s first season. Even without Kerr Kriisa, even without Jaxson Robinson, they find a way to find a way. It’s hard to find a way without Lamont Butler running the show.

Big Blue Nation learned that harsh reality in the SEC Tournament against Alabama. His presence was evident in the 19-point first round win over Troy, even though he was 0-5 from the floor. They’re a completely different team when Butler is playing point guard, both on offense and defense.

“They were intense from the jump. They were making stuff uncomfortable for us,” said Illinois point guard Kylan Boswell. “Coach has been saying it, shocking your central nervous system. They did a good job with iso-ing the ball screen, and that rattled us in the beginning but still, we can’t turn the ball over that much.”

Kentucky ranks No. 338 in forcing turnovers. The Cats forced 14 against Illinois, which turned into 26 points. Butler had three steals, including one that turned into a Brandon Garrison and one that ended a lengthy scoring drought late in the second half.

“You can’t give a team 26 points after turnovers. They turned it over five,” said Illinois head coach Brad Underwood. “You just can’t do that in this type of game and expect to win.”

No quit from @lamont_butler1 ➡️ tough and-1 from @brandonGarriso 😮‍💨

📺 – @MarchMadnessMBB, @CBSSportsCBB
pic.twitter.com/OrdwCOQB9P

— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) March 23, 2025

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LaMarch Butler gives Kentucky Leadership

Butler was a difference-maker on defense, but let’s be real, he hit some huge shots too. His two three-pointers came when the Cats needed a big bucket. He finished the night with 14 points and five assists.

When Underwood was asked how far Kentucky could advance in the NCAA Tournament, he responded, “I think as far as Lamont wants to take them. I think they’re really good. They’re old, they’re experienced. I think Lamont gives them leadership. I think he’s very good.”

It helps that Butler has some help running point with a 7-footer. Amari Williams struggled to finish in Milwaukee, but he tallied 23 points and 10 assists over the two NCAA Tournament wins.

“We saw Amari as a freshman, when he was at (Drexel), so it wasn’t any shock there. He’s just five years older and more mature,” said Underwood.

“He’s got great length and size. He’s a very unselfish player, willing passer. So he allows Koby Brea and Otega (Oweh) and those guys to cut and move, and he affects the game, he impacts it there is no doubt. Very good player, and I think they can — they can beat anybody.”

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