Kentucky Injury Report Heading into NCAA Tournament: Updates on Lamont Butler, Trent Noah, and Andrew Carr
As the 2025 NCAA Tournament begins, the Kentucky Wildcats are battling through a tough season full of injuries. The team has accumulated 44 missed games due to various injuries, forcing younger players into bigger roles while veterans have pushed through pain. Despite these setbacks, Kentucky is looking ahead to its first-round matchup against Troy with cautious optimism, hoping to secure its first tournament win in two years and return to the Sweet 16 for the first time this decade.
Injury Rundown: 44 Games Lost This Season
It’s been a challenging year for Kentucky, with injuries ranging from ankle sprains to fractured bones keeping the training room busy. Still, Coach Mark Pope has kept the team afloat, guiding them into the tournament. Now, the question is whether this group can stay healthy enough to make a run.
Lamont Butler Cleared to Play
There’s good news for Kentucky fans—point guard Lamont Butler is cleared to suit up against Troy. The San Diego State transfer, who’s averaged 12.5 points and 4.7 assists, has missed time with a shoulder injury, including a three-game stretch in February. Butler’s defensive skills and leadership will be crucial as Kentucky faces a Troy team eager to pull off an upset.
Trent Noah Fighting Off an Illness
Freshman Trent Noah, known for his energy and shooting, is currently battling a mild illness, which the team expects to be a short-term bug. While he didn’t participate in Selection Sunday activities, the staff is hopeful he’ll be ready for the opener. If healthy, Noah could provide valuable minutes off the bench.
Andrew Carr Pushing Through Back Spasms
Forward Andrew Carr, one of Kentucky’s most reliable players, has dealt with back spasms this season but is currently considered healthy. He averages 10.9 points and 5.6 rebounds while shooting 54% from the field. Carr’s inside presence will be key against Troy’s physical play.
Kerr Kriisa Done for the Season
Kentucky will be without backup guard Kerr Kriisa, who has been sidelined since December with a foot injury. Kriisa had surgery and won’t return this season, leaving a hole in the backcourt. There’s a chance he applies for a medical redshirt.
The Stakes: Can Kentucky End Their Drought?
Kentucky hasn’t won a tournament game since 2023 and hasn’t made the Sweet 16 since 2019—a tough stretch for a program with such high expectations. Their matchup against Troy, a 14-seed known for tough defense and offensive rebounding, won’t be easy. Kentucky’s health is shaky, but Butler’s return and Carr’s toughness give them a fighting chance. Freshmen like Travis Perry and Collin Chandler will need to step up in Kriisa’s absence.
Final Outlook: Beaten Up, But Still Dangerous
Kentucky heads into March Madness bruised but determined. Butler’s return boosts their chances, Carr’s grit will be crucial, and Noah’s status is improving. Although Kriisa’s absence hurts, the Wildcats have fought through adversity all season. If they can stay healthy, Kentucky has the talent to survive the opening round—and maybe even end their Sweet 16 drought.
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