Wildcats Fall to Washington in Sweet 16

Makayla Epps scored 30 points, including 17 in the second half, but it was not enough as third-seeded Kentucky lost to seventh-seeded Washington 85-72 on Friday.

Kentucky, playing at Rupp Arena, was boosted by the home crowd, but stymied by the opposition. An efficient Washington team shot 49.3 percent from the floor while committing only seven turnovers against Kentucky’s pressure defense.

On the other hand, Kentucky shot just 40 percent from the floor, including just 23.8 percent from three-point range.

Kentucky led 11-10 late in the first period before Washington went on a 23-9 run that gave them a 33-20 lead with 5:16 remaining in the first half.

From there, Kentucky closed the half on a 10-2 run to make it a five-point game at the half, 35-30.

The Wildcats scored on a jumper by Evelyn Akhator to open the second half and cut the lead to 35-32. But Kentucky would get no closer. 

Kentucky had four players in double figures in the game. Evelyn Akhator had 10 points and 14 rebounds for the Wildcats, while Alexis Jennings also posted a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Janee Thompson, playing in her final game as a Wildcat, had 11 points in the game.

Washington was led in scoring by Talia Walton, who had 30 and Kelsey Plum added 23. Chantel Osahor had 19 points and 17 rebounds for the Huskies, who advance to the regional final.

The Wildcats finish their season at 25-8, and will return everyone but Thompson on next year’s team.