The Kentucky Wildcats have dealt with their share of obstacles this year, but none have been more frustrating — or more heartbreaking — than the ongoing shoulder issues plaguing point guard Jaland Lowe.
After injuring his right shoulder in the Blue-White game, Lowe fought his way back to the floor for both the Valparaiso and Louisville matchups, delivering strong performances that suggested he was finally turning the corner. For a moment, it looked like Kentucky had its floor general back.
But on Thursday, the momentum came crashing down. Lowe re-injured the same shoulder during practice, leaving the team stunned and unsure what the rest of the season might hold for their leader.
Andrija Jelavic, who has grown close to Lowe, didn’t hide how much the setback affected him.
“I’m honestly not an emotional guy, but I was really… really sad,” Jelavic said after Friday night’s win. “I got goosebumps when he yelled for Wells, our doctor. When I heard it was the same shoulder, I felt awful for him. He’s such a good human being off the court, and an amazing player on it. I know how much this means to him, and even if he’s not showing it, I know how upset he is.”
Despite the discouraging news, Jelavic expressed belief that Lowe will return.
“We shouldn’t make a big deal out of it. He’ll be back sooner than later,” he added.
Freshman guard Kam Williams echoed the emotional response from the locker room.
“It was tough. Nobody wants to see their point guard go down like that,” Williams said. “I don’t know how serious the injury is, so I can’t speak on that. But we’re gonna pray for the best.”
The biggest question now: How long will Lowe be out this time?
According to multiple reports, season-ending surgery is still a possibility, though no final decision has been made.
For a Kentucky team that relies heavily on Lowe’s poise, leadership, and creation in the half-court, losing him for an extended stretch would be a massive blow. But within the program, there remains a quiet hope — and belief — that the junior guard will return again this season.
For now, the Wildcats wait, hoping the next update finally brings good news.
Let’s hope we get to see Jaland Lowe back on the floor soon.
