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Summary:

Kentucky shocked undefeated and No. 5 ranked LSU, defeating them 80-78 thanks to a clutch, last-second 3-pointer by Tonie Morgan. The game was notable for an appearance by newly appointed LSU football coach Lane Kiffin alongside women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey, however Kiffin’s appearance didn’t bring LSU any luck. The loss marks LSU’s first defeat of the season. The article also briefly discusses Kiffin’s departure from Ole Miss and his new lucrative contract with LSU, as well as the firing of LSU’s previous coach, Brian Kelly.

News Article:

Kentucky Stuns Undefeated LSU with Last-Second Three, Kiffin’s Presence Fails to Spark Tigers

BATON ROUGE, La. – Tonie Morgan drained a clutch 3-pointer with just seconds remaining, lifting No. 11 Kentucky to an 80-78 upset victory over No. 5 LSU on Thursday night, handing the Tigers their first loss of the season. The defeat spoiled what was already a high-profile evening, as newly appointed LSU football coach Lane Kiffin made a courtside appearance alongside women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey.

Kiffin and Mulkey emerged from the tunnel holding hands, drawing a roar from the crowd. Mulkey acknowledged the new football coach, seemingly attempting to rally support before the game. “He was very gracious to come over here and let the LSU fans acknowledge him,” Mulkey said. “They have the [transfer] portal opening tomorrow, so I know he’s working. I appreciated him coming.”

However, Kiffin’s presence failed to translate into good fortune for the Tigers. Despite a strong start to the season, winning their first 14 games, LSU couldn’t withstand Kentucky’s late surge, ultimately succumbing to Morgan’s game-winning shot.

The game coincided with Lane Kiffin’s former team Ole Miss football kicking off in a CFP quarterfinal game at the Sugar Bowl. The Rebels defeated the Bulldogs 39-34.

Kiffin recently made the jump to LSU after signing a seven-year contract with an average annual salary of $13 million, replacing Brian Kelly. The university also committed to ensuring the football program has sufficient financial backing to pay players.

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