The Kentucky Wildcats are navigating a challenging stretch, having dropped their last two matchups-one on the road against Florida and another at home versus Georgia. Head coach Mark Pope addressed the media following the recent loss to the Bulldogs, voicing his concerns about the heavy minutes his starters are logging and the current lack of depth on the roster.
One player who could provide a much-needed boost is potential lottery pick Jayden Quaintance. However, Pope remains cautious about Quaintance's return, especially with only five games left in the regular season.
“He continues to make progress,” Pope shared about Quaintance. “He’s not ready right now. He’s not ready, and we’re not going to roll him out there till he’s 100%, and he’s a ways from that.”
Quaintance has been sidelined since January 7th, and even if he starts practicing soon, there will be a necessary ramp-up period before he can participate in games again.
“We haven’t incorporated him back into practice, so that’s complicated. I don’t know how optimistic I am about that,” Pope added.
Pope is firm in his stance that Quaintance must be fully recovered before returning to action.
“He’s making great progress, but with a guy as explosive as he is, he’s got to be 100 percent ready. We’re working him back slowly but positively.”
After transferring from Arizona State and recovering from an ACL tear, Quaintance has played in four games for the Wildcats, averaging 5 points, 5 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks per game.
For now, Wildcats fans should temper expectations about seeing Quaintance back on the court this season.