LEXINGTON, Ky. (Interstat) — Kentucky used a strong second half to pull away from Mississippi for a 72-63 men’s basketball victory Saturday at a sold-out Rupp Arena.

The Wildcats, led by Otega Oweh’s game-high 23 points, improved to 14-6 overall. The Rebels fell to 11-9. Kentucky led 29-23 at halftime before both offenses found rhythm after the break. AJ Storr scored 20 points for Mississippi, and Malik Dia added 16.

Kentucky’s transition game was decisive, outscoring Mississippi 13-5 on fast breaks before a crowd of 19,831. The Wildcats next play at Vanderbilt on Tuesday. Mississippi hosts Vanderbilt on Jan. 31.