The Kentucky Wildcats will face the No. 5 Tennessee Volunteers without fifth-year guard Jaxson Robinson, who has been ruled out due to a wrist injury. Robinson suffered the injury during practice last Friday and played through pain against South Carolina, but his condition has not improved.
Robinson’s absence leaves a significant void in the Wildcats’ backcourt, as he averages 13.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. He played a crucial role in Kentucky’s upset win over Tennessee on January 28, scoring 17 points and making four three-pointers.
To compensate for Robinson’s absence, Kentucky may turn to graduate senior wing Koby Brea to step into the starting lineup. Freshmen Collin Chandler and Trent Noah are also expected to see increased minutes off the bench. Coach Mark Pope emphasized that he expects the younger players to step up in Robinson’s absence.
