The 1997–98 Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball team were coached by Tubby Smith.

The team finished the season with a 29–4 record and won the NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship over the Utah Utes, 78–69.

The Tubby Smith-era officially began on November 18 with an 88 to 49 victory over Morehead State at Rupp Arena.

Four days later Kentucky played in-state rival Louisville in the annual Battle for the Bluegrass.

Kentucky was upset by the Cardinals 76 to 79 due in part to the Wildcats shooting 5 for 23 from the 3 point line.

[21] Kentucky finished the 1997 calendar year with a 11–2 record and ranked 6th in the AP poll.