Which Kentucky Players Have March Madness Experience, and Will It Matter?

Experience holds significant value at this time of year, or so it’s often said. Kentucky has a number of players with past NCAA Tournament experience. Let’s evaluate their previous performances and assess whether it will make a difference in the upcoming tournament.

The NCAA Tournament brings an unmatched level of pressure, with the bright lights, loud crowds, and high stakes often overwhelming even the best teams. However, Kentucky’s roster may have a secret advantage this year — experience. A number of key players have already navigated March Madness, and that tested resilience could be crucial for a deep tournament run.

The Value of Kentucky’s Tournament-Proven Roster

When analyzing some of the players transferring to Kentucky or taking on larger roles, one trend emerges: They’ve been in high-pressure tournament games before. They’ve felt the intensity of win-or-go-home situations, with some even emerging victorious.

Let’s examine how these players have fared when the stakes were highest.

Koby Brea (Dayton)

Brea is one of the most experienced players joining the Wildcats, having participated in the 2024 tournament with Dayton. His poise under pressure was evident in their Round of 64 victory against Nevada, where he scored 15 points on 5-of-9 shooting, including 5-of-8 from three-point range. Brea then posted 14 points in a tough Round of 32 loss to Arizona, proving his ability to perform even under challenging circumstances.

His knack for hitting key shots in crucial moments will be vital for Kentucky’s success. His three-point shooting provides an added dimension to the Wildcats’ offense, and importantly, he has already proven he can perform on the grandest stage.

Amari Williams (Drexel)

Williams’ sole NCAA Tournament appearance in 2021 wasn’t one to remember statistically. In a blowout defeat to Illinois, he played just four minutes and didn’t score. However, that was four years ago, and what matters now is how far he’s come since then.

He’s had time to reflect, grow, and refine his game. That early taste of the tournament, though brief and tough, could fuel him to leave his mark in this year’s tournament.

Andrew Carr (Delaware)

Carr’s lone NCAA Tournament appearance came in 2022, but it was a remarkable one. Despite Delaware’s 80-60 loss to Villanova, Carr played a near-perfect game, scoring 13 points on 5-of-5 shooting, including a three-pointer and four free throws.

His flawless performance suggests he wasn’t intimidated by the moment. Although it was a short-lived experience, it’s still valuable. Having felt the intensity of the tournament, Carr is now better prepared to make an impact on a bigger stage with Kentucky.

Ansley Almonor (Fairleigh Dickinson)

Almonor played a crucial role in one of the most surprising upsets in NCAA history, Fairleigh Dickinson’s victory over Purdue in the 2023 Round of 64. While his individual performance in that game didn’t stand out, it was his 23-point showing against Texas Southern in the First Four that highlighted his potential.

Even after a tough outing against Purdue, Almonor continued to contribute, adding 7 points and 8 rebounds in a hard-fought loss to Florida Atlantic in the Round of 32. His resilience and mental toughness will be invaluable to Kentucky as they navigate March.

Lamont Butler (San Diego State)

Butler’s NCAA Tournament experience is especially intriguing. Not only has he participated, but he’s thrived in the tournament. His time with San Diego State included a magical run to the 2023 National Championship Game, where they ultimately lost to Connecticut.

During that run, Butler delivered key performances, including 18 points in a tight win over Creighton in the Elite Eight and a game-winning shot against Florida Atlantic in the Final Four. His confidence and ability to handle late-game pressure will be crucial for Kentucky.

But Butler’s tournament success didn’t stop there. In the 2024 tournament, he led San Diego State to two more wins before facing UConn again in the Sweet 16. His leadership, defensive skills, and poise under pressure will be assets for the Wildcats.

Why Experience Matters

Tournament experience goes beyond just numbers. It’s about composure, understanding how quickly momentum can shift, and knowing every possession matters. It’s about staying calm when the pressure intensifies.

For Kentucky, having players like Brea, Almonor, and Butler, who have not only participated in March Madness but thrived in it, could provide the Wildcats with the edge they need for a deep run. Even for players like Williams and Carr, who haven’t yet found success in the tournament, simply having that experience will give them an advantage over first-timers.

The Big Blue Nation Effect

As always, Kentucky fans will make their presence felt. However, it’s these tournament-tested players who will ultimately determine the Wildcats’ fate. If their previous experiences have taught them anything, it’s that surviving March Madness requires nerves of steel, relentless effort, and the ability to perform when it counts the most.

Can Kentucky’s roster of tournament-tested players help them secure banner No. 9? One thing is certain — they are battle-ready. In March Madness, that experience could make all the difference between an early exit and a legendary run.