Kentucky’s alumni team, La Familia, maintained their momentum as they staged a comeback to secure a victory against The Nawf in The Basketball Tournament (TBT). This win followed their initial success over 305 Ballers, as former Kentucky basketball players showcased their skills and teamwork at Rupp Arena in front of their dedicated fans.
Comprised of notable ex-Cats such as Aaron and Andrew Harrison, Eric Bledsoe, and Willie Cauley-Stein, La Familia displayed resilience as they overcame a halftime deficit to emerge victorious with a final score of 81-64. The energy and enthusiasm of the crowd further propelled the team’s performance, resulting in a remarkable comeback.
A standout player in Sunday’s game was Kerem Kanter, the only member of La Familia who did not play college ball at Kentucky. Kanter’s impressive contribution of 26 points and nine rebounds, including a crucial 3-pointer that secured the win, solidified his role as an invaluable part of the team. Despite not being a former Wildcat, Kanter expressed his gratitude for being embraced by his teammates and acknowledged the sense of camaraderie within La Familia.
The younger brother of Enes Kanter, who was involved in a dispute with the NCAA during his time at Kentucky, Kerem expressed his excitement for his brother’s support in the upcoming games at Rupp Arena. His commendable performance on the court served as a testament to his skill and determination, as he carried on his form from Friday’s game, where he also led La Familia in scoring with 21 points.
Supported by excellent performances from Eric Bledsoe, Nate Sestina, and Andrew Harrison, La Familia’s victory was a collective effort that showcased their strength and potential in the tournament. Under the guidance of former UK guard and student assistant Tyler Ulis, the team displayed resilience and determination as they rose to the occasion and secured their spot in the TBT round of 16.
Looking ahead, La Familia is set to face Herd That, a team of Marshall alumni players, in the upcoming game at Rupp Arena. The stage is set for an exciting match between the 1st seed and 2nd seed in the Lexington Regional of TBT. With both teams just four victories away from securing the championship title and a prize of $1 million, the competition is heating up, promising an exhilarating showdown in the games to come.
As the tournament progresses, the alumni players from La Familia are determined to continue their winning streak and make their mark in the TBT. With their eyes set on the ultimate prize, the team’s unwavering dedication and hard work are sure to make for an exciting journey in the games ahead.