Andrew Harrison scored 15 points to lead a balanced Kentucky attack, and the No. 1 Wildcats pulled away in the second half for a 69-53 victory over Missouri on Thursday night.
The Wildcats improved to 20-0 for the third time in school history, and closed within five wins of matching the record start achieved by Adolph Rupp’s team in 1953-54.
As usual, Kentucky (7-0 SEC) won with its defense. Missouri turned the ball over 15 times and shot just 38 percent from the field in the second half, when the game was largely decided.
Wes Clark scored 19 points for the Tigers (7-13, 1-6), who have lost six straight for the first time since 2006. Johnathan Williams III added 10 points and five rebounds.
Five players fouled out in the mucky game, resulting in a combined 57 free throws.