Kerr Kriisa’s recent foot surgery was a success, but it will likely be several weeks before the Estonian guard returns to the court for Kentucky. Head coach Mark Pope offered a lighthearted update after Kentucky’s 78-67 victory over Colgate, jokingly suggesting a quick 10-day return, though the realistic timeline is closer to six weeks.
Kriisa, who suffered a Jones fracture during the game against Gonzaga, will be sidelined as he recovers. This absence, coupled with starting point guard Lamont Butler’s ongoing injury, leaves Kentucky shorthanded in the backcourt. Against Colgate, the Wildcats missed Kriisa’s playmaking and leadership in what turned out to be a closer-than-expected contest.
Despite being out of action, Kriisa’s personality continues to shine. Pope shared a humorous moment with his player, recounting a FaceTime call shortly after Kriisa woke up from surgery.
“In true Kerr fashion, he FaceTimed me as soon as he woke up and fully acknowledged he was high as a kite,” Pope said during his postgame radio appearance. “He was going down a laundry list of all the people he loves so much. I wanted to put it on Instagram Live, but I’m not tech-savvy enough to pull it off. I’ll work on that for the future.”
Kriisa’s energy, Pope noted, will still be an asset to the team even from the bench. His vocal support and enthusiasm will help motivate his teammates as he focuses on his recovery.
Long-term, Kentucky will need Kriisa back on the floor. He was instrumental against Gonzaga, stepping up in Butler’s absence with sharp playmaking and critical three-point shooting. For now, the Wildcats will lean on their depth while eagerly anticipating Kriisa’s return to full health.
