Kentucky Wildcats vs Bellarmine Knights Picks and Predictions December 23rd 2025

Kentucky Wildcats vs Bellarmine Knights Betting Preview

The Kentucky Wildcats enter 8-4 and look to extend their winning streak, while the Bellarmine Knights aim to stay competitive behind Jack Karasinski in this non-conference matchup at Rupp Arena.

Line Movement and Odds

Kentucky opened as a massive favorite, with the line reflecting confidence in their home-court dominance. Current market:

• Kentucky Spread: -35.5 (-114)
• Bellarmine Spread: +35.5 (-110)
• Total: 153.5 (-110)

Track updates and sharper angles on College Basketball Odds.

Matchup Breakdown

Bellarmine Outlook

Bellarmine averages 74 points per game, with Jack Karasinski and Brian Waddell leading the offense. Their shooting efficiency (51.4% FG, 16th nationally) and free-throw accuracy (80.9%, 15th nationally) highlight balance. Their 5-6 record and 1-4 road mark underscore inconsistency, though Karasinski’s scoring and rebounding provide stability.

Kentucky Outlook

Kentucky averages 83.8 points per game with Otega Oweh and Jayden Quaintance providing scoring depth. Their shooting efficiency (47.7% FG) and rebounding edge (41.2 per game, 45th nationally) highlight offensive strength. Their 7-1 home record underscores betting confidence heading into SEC play, with Quaintance’s return adding depth.

Key Matchup / Path to Victory

The game hinges on Kentucky’s ability to maintain offensive rhythm, while Bellarmine must lean on Karasinski to pace the offense. If Kentucky controls tempo and boards, their depth should create separation.

Injuries / Availability

Bellarmine: No injury updates provided.

Kentucky: Jayden Quaintance returned from ACL injury vs St. John’s, contributing 10 points and 8 rebounds.

Environment

Rupp Arena provides Kentucky with a strong home-court edge, where they are 7-1 this season. Bellarmine’s road struggles highlight the difficulty of competing in Lexington.

Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Kentucky 88, Bellarmine 60

• Bellarmine +35.5 → Best Bet. Their shooting efficiency makes them a strong cover candidate.
• Under 153.5 → Total play. Bellarmine’s slower pace points toward a combined score below the line.

Kentucky’s depth and shooting should dictate the game, but Bellarmine’s offense keeps the spread in play. Expect a competitive contest trending under the total.

Handicappers and Service Plays

Sharpen your betting edge by exploring our Best Handicappers, tracking expert streaks on the Leaderboard, and reviewing premium insights in Buy Picks. These resources highlight consensus plays, service picks, and sharp betting angles to complement your own handicapping strategy.