Kentucky-LSU basketball statistical comparisons (rematch)

Kentucky plays host to LSU on Saturday at Rupp Arena, so time to take a look at how the two teams stack up statistically.

First, let’s look at the first game between the two teams back on Jan. 5 in Baton Rouge. LSU rolled 85-67 thanks to several factors. The Tigers shot 49.2 percent compared to 41.4 percent for Kentucky.

It went beyond that, however. LSU dominated the boards, winning the rebound battle 46-32. The Tigers claimed 43.2 percent of their offensive rebounds compared to 26.8 for Kentucky. LSU also made six of 14 three-pointers, while Kentucky was seven-of-20 from beyond the arc.

Here is a chart of the Four Factors from the first game.

As for the season overall, LSU’s biggest problem has been on the defensive end. Ken Pomeroy ranks the Tigers just 158th in defensive efficiency. Opponents are shooting 45.1 percent against LSU from the floor and 35.3 from three-point range.