As Kentucky prepares for Saturday’s rivalry matchup against Louisville, the Wildcats will still be without Kerr Kriisa, but the status of starting point guard Lamont Butler remains uncertain.
Head coach Mark Pope provided an update following Kentucky’s 78-67 win over Colgate on Wednesday. “Lamont is getting a little bit better,” Pope said. “He was on the court a little bit today. Every day, we test him a little more to see how he’s progressing. We’ll know more tomorrow morning when he wakes up.”
Butler, one of Kentucky’s most consistent players this season, has missed the past two games after rolling his ankle during the Wildcats’ December 3 loss to Clemson. Despite finishing that game, the injury kept him sidelined against Gonzaga and Colgate. While Kentucky managed to win both contests, the absence of Butler’s leadership and skill at the point guard position has been evident.
Through eight games, Butler has averaged 12.9 points, 3.9 assists, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.5 steals in just 22.5 minutes per game. He’s also shooting an efficient 55.1% from the field and 33.3% from three-point range. Beyond his offensive contributions, his defensive presence has been a crucial component of Kentucky’s success.
Pope emphasized the importance of Butler’s return, smiling as he said, “I would prefer if he rejoins our team on the floor sometime soon. We want to see him out here playing.”
Kentucky has managed by sliding Jaxson Robinson into the point guard role, but with Kriisa also out, Butler’s absence could hinder the Wildcats against Louisville. Tipoff at Rupp Arena is scheduled for 5:15 p.m. EST on ESPN, and Kentucky fans are hopeful Butler will be ready to take the court.
