Kentucky basketball health watch: Wildcats near full strength
Jaxson Robinson did not come through the Oklahoma game as the team would have hoped, exiting early and not returning. The official injury report is out and it is the smallest it has been for weeks.
By
Drew Holbrook
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Feb 26, 2025; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Jaxson Robinson (2) shoots a three point basket as Oklahoma Sooners guard Duke Miles (15) defend during the first half at Lloyd Noble Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Feb 26, 2025; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Jaxson Robinson (2) shoots a three point basket as Oklahoma Sooners guard Duke Miles (15) defend during the first half at Lloyd Noble Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images | Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
As the Kentucky Wildcats prepare for a crucial stretch in SEC play, the latest injury report brings mostly good news. While Amari Williams, Andrew Carr, and Lamont Butler have all avoided the injury list, Jaxson Robinson joins Kerr Kriisa as the only two Wildcats sidelined. With Robinson dealing with a wrist issue following the Oklahoma game, Kentucky will have to adjust without one of its key contributors.
Jaxson Robinson has officially been ruled OUT for tomorrow’s game against Auburn. pic.twitter.com/BYYENUYpxk
— KSR (@KSRonX) March 1, 2025
Who’s Healthy? Encouraging Signs for the Wildcats
🔹 Amari Williams – Though seen favoring his leg after a play against Oklahoma, he is not listed on the injury report.
🔹 Andrew Carr – Despite battling back problems earlier this season, he is fully available.
🔹 Lamont Butler – After fouling out late in the Oklahoma game, Butler is good to go.
With these three ready to play, head coach Mark Pope will have nearly his full rotation available as the Wildcats look to solidify their NCAA Tournament seeding.
The Absences: Jaxson Robinson’s Injury a Big Blow
🔸 Jaxson Robinson (wrist) – Pope indicated that Robinson “did not come through the Oklahoma game well,” leaving him sidelined for now with a nagging wrist injury.
🔸 Kerr Kriisa (foot surgery) – Has been out for most of the season and remains unavailable.
Losing Robinson is significant. His scoring, shooting, and defensive presence have been major factors in Kentucky’s success this season. Looking at his SEC stats, here’s what the Wildcats will be missing:
📊 Jaxson Robinson’s SEC Contributions
✅ Points Per Game (PPG): 14 points per game in conference play
✅ Three-Point Shooting: One of the team’s most reliable perimeter threats at 46% during SEC play
✅ Defensive Presence: Takes an important role in defending opposing wings
Without Robinson, Kentucky’s depth will be tested, particularly in matchups where outside shooting is crucial. Expect players like Butler and Oweh to take on larger roles offensively.
What’s Next for Kentucky?
With a nearly clean injury report, the Wildcats are in a strong position heading into the season’s final stretch. However, Robinson’s absence could impact spacing and perimeter defense—two areas Kentucky will need to address as it prepares for the SEC and NCAA Tournaments.
How will the Wildcats adjust? Stay tuned as Kentucky looks to make a statement in March.
