**SCHEDULE UPDATE: Kentucky Wildcats vs. Florida Gators — TIME CHANGE NOTICE.**
The Southeastern Conference has confirmed a minor adjustment to the upcoming high-stakes matchup between the No. 25 Kentucky Wildcats and the No. 14 Florida Gators, set for Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center in Gainesville, Florida. While the original scheduling announcement from October 2025 listed the tip-off at 3:00 p.m. ET on ABC, recent communications from UK Athletics, Florida Gators athletics, and broadcast partners have reiterated and solidified the time slot amid ongoing league-wide confirmations of television designations.
This game, originally locked in as a 3:00 p.m. ET start when the full 2025-26 SEC schedule was finalized in the fall, has seen no formal shift in tip time according to the latest updates from official sources. However, the “time change notice” circulating among fans and media stems from routine clarifications and reminders issued close to game week, ensuring alignment across networks, travel logistics, and fan expectations. In past seasons, similar notices have addressed daylight saving adjustments, broadcast flexing, or minor tweaks for national exposure, but for this contest, the 3:00 p.m.
ET kickoff remains intact on ABC, providing prime afternoon viewing for a nationally televised SEC showdown.
The matchup carries significant implications for both teams in the tightly contested SEC race. Kentucky enters with a 17-7 overall record and 8-3 mark in conference play, riding a three-game winning streak highlighted by a gritty 74-71 comeback victory over No. 25 Tennessee on February 7 at Rupp Arena. Otega Oweh’s 21-point performance in that game exemplified the Wildcats’ resilience under second-year head coach Mark Pope, who has emphasized defensive intensity and late-game execution.
The Wildcats have thrived at home (13-2) but face a stern test on the road against a Florida squad boasting an 18-6 overall record and 9-2 SEC ledger, good enough to lead the conference standings.
Florida, fresh off a dominant stretch including a four-game winning streak, presents one of the league’s most balanced attacks. The Gators have excelled at home (10-1) and feature a potent frontcourt that has averaged strong production in recent outings. This game marks a critical opportunity for Kentucky to solidify its position near the top of the standings and build momentum heading into March Madness preparations. A road win in Gainesville would represent a signature SEC victory for Pope’s group, potentially boosting their NCAA Tournament seeding profile.
Broadcast details remain consistent: ABC will carry the game live at 3:00 p.m. ET, with streaming available via WatchESPN, the ESPN app, and services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Sling TV (Blue & Orange plans). Replays will be accessible through the ESPN family of networks. Fans planning to attend in person should note standard parking and entry protocols at the O’Connell Center, with tickets still available through official channels.
This afternoon slot on ABC underscores the national interest in the rivalry. Kentucky and Florida have a storied history in SEC play, with recent meetings often decided by single digits and featuring high-level talent. The Wildcats’ offensive firepower, averaging around 81.6 points per game, will clash against Florida’s stout defense and home-court energy. Key storylines include how Kentucky handles Florida’s interior presence and whether the Wildcats’ recent momentum translates to a tough road environment.
As the season progresses toward the SEC Tournament in Nashville from March 11-15, 2026, games like this one shape resumes and confidence. Kentucky’s schedule remains demanding post-Florida, with a home tilt against Georgia on February 17 at 9:00 p.m. ET on ESPN, followed by road challenges at Auburn and South Carolina. For Florida, the win would further cement their hold on first place and set up a strong finish.
The 3:00 p.m. ET start time, confirmed across multiple platforms including UK Athletics, Florida Gators’ official site, ESPN game pages, and SEC resources, ensures maximum visibility for what promises to be an entertaining, high-energy SEC battle. Big Blue Nation and Gator faithful alike are encouraged to tune in early for pregame coverage, as both teams vie for positioning in one of college basketball’s premier conferences.
With no major alteration from the original designation, this “update” serves primarily as a reminder of the locked-in details for what could be a pivotal chapter in both programs’ seasons. As February 14 approaches, anticipation builds for tip-off in Gainesville—a game that could influence the SEC title chase and beyond.
The 3:00 p.m. ET start time, confirmed across multiple platforms including UK Athletics, Florida Gators’ official site, ESPN game pages, and SEC resources, ensures maximum visibility for what promises to be an entertaining, high-energy SEC battle. Big Blue Nation and Gator faithful alike are encouraged to tune in early for pregame coverage, as both teams vie for positioning in one of college basketball’s premier conferences.
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