Kentucky finally has real reason to breathe again: Jaland Lowe is officially back on the court, participating in non-contact practice work this week.
Just days ago, the conversations around Lowe were filled with fear. A re-injured shoulder, multiple medical opinions, and whispers of potential season-ending surgery. It felt like Kentucky was bracing for another crushing blow after the Louisville loss.
Now? Everything has flipped.
Pope Delivers the First Big Positive Update
During his first call-in show of the season, head coach Mark Pope gave a surprise update that instantly lifted the mood around the program.
> “Jaland Lowe was on the court today in non-contact skill work,” Pope said. “He’s making progress… It’ll continue to be a day-to-day scenario… He’s doing well.”
Not only was Lowe moving well in drills, Pope still credited him for being a vocal leader — coaching teammates, communicating loudly, and taking on responsibilities the staff believes will translate directly once he returns to full participation.
This marks the first major sign of optimism since the injury setback on November 13.
Rehab Over Surgery — The Path Moving Forward
Heading into the Loyola (Md.) game last week, Pope made it clear: surgery was not the current plan.
Instead, the staff and Lowe agreed to:
Focus on rehab
Build mobility and strength
Monitor stability
“Take another swing” if the shoulder responded well
And so far, it has.
Pope said Lowe already has good mobility, with strength and stability being the next benchmarks before contact is allowed.
Could Lowe Return by the North Carolina Game?
Lowe has missed:
Eastern Illinois
Michigan State (Champions Classic)
Loyola (Md.)
He’s expected to sit against Tennessee Tech. But after that, Kentucky has a break until December 2 vs. North Carolina — a massive matchup that suddenly looks like a realistic target return date.
Kentucky’s offense, spacing, and tempo all take a major leap when he’s on the court.
The Momentum Is Real
Lowe dislocated his shoulder during the Blue-White Game on October 17, returned for two games, then suffered another setback. What felt like a season-derailing moment now looks more like a temporary detour.
He’s back practicing.
He’s progressing.
He’s surprising even the staff with how quickly things are clicking.
The hope for Kentucky?
That this comeback continues — and PG1 is back in uniform when it matters most.
