How Weetabix Fueled Amari Williams' Dominant Performance in Kentucky's Sweet 16 Victory

In a thrilling NCAA March Madness showdown, Kentucky’s center Amari Williams delivered a standout performance, propelling the Wildcats to an 84-75 victory over Illinois. Williams’ impressive stat line of 8 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 blocks, and a steal was crucial in securing Kentucky’s spot in the Sweet 16. Head coach Mark Pope attributed Williams’ success to an unlikely source: Weetabix, a shredded wheat cereal Williams grew up eating in Nottingham, England.

The Weetabix Connection

Williams, who typically opts for toast at breakfast, was encouraged by the Kentucky staff to switch to Weetabix for better energy and focus. The team’s nutritionists sourced the cereal from an international grocery store in Milwaukee, ensuring Williams could stick to his childhood staple. Pope and forward Brandon Garrison also joined in, and Weetabix will now be a mandatory team breakfast leading up to their next game.

A Secret Weapon?

Coach Pope believes Weetabix played a significant role in Williams’ performance. “The Weetabix were extraordinary, actually,” Pope joked. “You crumble it up, add warm milk—the warm milk is key—and a bit of sugar. It’s fantastic.” Williams initially described it as “not too bad,” but after some playful persuasion from teammate Lamont Butler, he upgraded his review to “amazing.”

Sweet 16 Showdown

Kentucky’s victory marks their first Sweet 16 appearance since 2019. Their next challenge? A matchup against the No. 2 seed Tennessee Volunteers, a team they’ve already defeated twice this season. With Williams in top form and Weetabix on the menu, the Wildcats are ready to make a deep tournament run.

Future NIL Deal?

Pope is already envisioning a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal for Williams with Weetabix. “It’s a win-win,” Pope said. “Amari gets a sponsor, and Weetabix gets a champion.” Can Weetabix continue to fuel Kentucky’s March Madness dreams? Only time will tell.