LEXINGTON — Kentucky basketball returns to the court tonight.

But for the first time in the 2025-26 season, the Wildcats are entering off a loss. After victories over over Nicholls and Valparaiso , UK couldn't slow down Louisville on Tuesday, losing 96-88 at the KFC Yum! Center .

Tonight's opponent, on paper, appears to be the perfect opponent for a one-sided, bounce back win.

Eastern Illinois is 1-2 this season, beating Nicholls but losing to Notre Dame and Valparaiso . Outside expectations for the Panthers are low: They were picked to finish 10th (of 11 teams) in the Ohio Valley Conference 's preseason poll in 2025-26. EIU is No. 313 in the KenPom.com rankings entering tonight's matchup; there are 365 Division I teams tracked by KenPom. Stream Kentucky b

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