Trent Noah may not be back on the court tonight — and this time, it sounds like Mark Pope might be the one keeping him there…
Kentucky basketball fans were hoping for good news on Trent Noah, but Mark Pope’s latest comments suggest that the sharpshooting freshman is still dealing with a lingering ankle injury — and the team might be forced to play it safe heading into the Valparaiso matchup.
Noah, the Eastern Kentucky native who has quickly earned a starting role for the Wildcats, went down during the first half against Nicholls after what appeared to be an awkward twist on his ankle. He was helped off the court and did not return to the game, a sight that instantly worried fans given how impactful he’s been early in the season.
After the game, Noah reportedly tried to talk his way back onto the floor — a move that perfectly sums up his mentality. He’s a competitor through and through, and according to Pope, that very toughness could become a double-edged sword.
> “I don’t think we’ll practice him today. I don’t know if he’ll be available tomorrow,” Pope said. “I’m guessing it’s probably a toss-up… I’m probably leaning toward saving him and just trying to get him healthy.”
That line — “leaning toward saving him” — tells you everything you need to know about the situation. Pope doesn’t just want Noah back; he wants him right. And if that means sitting out a game or two in November to ensure he’s ready for the long haul, that’s the call he’s ready to make.
But it’s not an easy one, especially when the player in question is built like Noah.
> “The one complicated thing about Trent — you love players like this — he’s never going to tell you that he’s in pain, ever,” Pope explained. “So I’ll probably err a little bit on the side of caution with him.”
That honesty from Pope gives fans a rare glimpse into how much the coaching staff values Noah — not just for his shooting, but for his mentality. He’s the kind of player who sets the tone in practice, keeps his composure in tough stretches, and quietly does the little things that make a team better.
Pope went on to praise Noah’s early-season impact, describing why he’s already earned so much trust from the coaching staff.
> “Trent’s been so good. He’s been so solid. He shot the ball so well. He’s been such a good decision maker,” Pope said. “He’s been one of our best ball protection guys and one of our elite shooters. He brings peace on the court.”
That word — peace — might sound simple, but it’s rare for a freshman to bring it. Noah has shown an ability to slow the game down, keep Kentucky organized, and play with the poise of a veteran. He doesn’t need to light up the scoreboard to make an impact — sometimes it’s a clean pass, a calm possession, or a smart rotation that changes everything.
And while Kentucky’s depth gives Pope the flexibility to rest him, his absence will still be felt. Noah’s shooting threat stretches the floor, opening up driving lanes for Jaland Lowe, Otega Oweh, and Brandon Garrison to attack. Without him, Kentucky may need to rely on other perimeter options like Trentyn Flowers or Denzel Aberdeen to step up.
Still, Pope’s cautious tone isn’t a sign of panic — it’s a reflection of the long game. The Wildcats have bigger goals ahead, and a non-conference matchup against Valparaiso isn’t worth risking a long-term setback. Especially with the Louisville rivalry game looming next week, Pope made it clear he’d rather have Noah at full strength when it matters most.
Noah’s story — a small-town kid from Eastern Kentucky earning his spot in Rupp Arena — has already made him one of the most likable figures on the team. His relentless work ethic and quiet toughness embody the kind of player Kentucky fans love to root for.
So while it’s disappointing that he’s likely sitting out tonight, it’s also reassuring to know that Pope and his staff are protecting him from himself. Noah’s toughness may be legendary, but even warriors need rest.
As for when he’ll return? Pope didn’t give a specific timeline — and that might be intentional. The focus now is on recovery, not rushing. But if there’s one thing fans can count on, it’s that Trent Noah will be fighting to get back on that court as soon as possible.
And when he does, don’t be surprised if he picks up right where he left off — doing all the little things that make Kentucky basketball Kentucky basketball.
