Kentucky Wildcats Injury Report: Jaxson Robinson Out, Lamont Butler Cleared for NCAA Tournament…
As the Kentucky Wildcats gear up for the 2025 NCAA Tournament, injury updates have brought both disappointment and optimism for the team. While standout guard Jaxson Robinson is officially ruled out due to an injury, the Wildcats receive a boost with the return of veteran guard Lamont Butler just in time for the tournament.
Jaxson Robinson’s Injury: A Major Setback
Jaxson Robinson, one of Kentucky’s key perimeter threats, suffered an injury during the SEC Tournament and has been ruled out for the Wildcats’ March Madness run. While the team has not disclosed the exact nature of the injury, sources indicate that it is significant enough to sideline him for the foreseeable future.
Robinson has been an integral part of Kentucky’s offense this season, averaging 13.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game while shooting over 38% from three-point range. His ability to stretch the floor and create opportunities for his teammates will be sorely missed as the Wildcats enter a challenging Midwest Region bracket.
Head coach John Calipari addressed Robinson’s absence in a press conference:
“Jaxson has been a warrior for us all season, and it’s heartbreaking that he won’t be able to compete in the tournament. We’re going to rally around him and use his energy as motivation to make a deep run.”
Lamont Butler Returns: A Timely Boost for Kentucky
On the flip side, the Wildcats received encouraging news with the return of Lamont Butler, who had been sidelined for the past two weeks with a minor ankle injury. Butler, known for his defensive intensity and leadership, is expected to rejoin the starting lineup for Kentucky’s first-round matchup against Troy on Friday, March 21 in Milwaukee.
Butler’s return is crucial for Kentucky, as he provides much-needed stability in the backcourt. The senior guard is averaging 9.8 points, 4.2 assists, and 1.9 steals per game, making him a key piece in both the Wildcats’ offensive and defensive schemes. His ability to guard elite perimeter players will be essential, especially if Kentucky faces high-scoring opponents in later rounds.
“I’m feeling good and ready to help my team make a run,” Butler said in an interview. “Sitting out was tough, but I’ve been working hard to get back, and I can’t wait to step on the court with my brothers.”
Impact on Kentucky’s Tournament Hopes
The Wildcats, who enter March Madness as a No. 3 seed in the Midwest Region, will have to adjust their rotation to compensate for Robinson’s absence. Expect freshman guard Reed Sheppard and veteran Antonio Reeves to take on bigger offensive roles, while Butler’s return could help solidify Kentucky’s perimeter defense.
The Midwest Region is stacked with powerhouse teams, including No. 1 seed Houston and No. 2 seed Tennessee, making Robinson’s absence even more significant. However, if Butler can make an immediate impact and the rest of the roster steps up, Kentucky still has a strong chance to advance deep into the tournament.
Final Thoughts
While losing Jaxson Robinson is a major blow for the Wildcats, the return of Lamont Butler provides a much-needed silver lining. As Kentucky prepares for its first-round battle against Troy, all eyes will be on how Coach Calipari adjusts his game plan. With March Madness full of surprises, the Wildcats remain a dangerous team capable of making a statement.
Kentucky fans will be hoping that Butler’s return fuels a deep tournament run—one that honors Robinson’s contributions throughout the season.
