After Kentucky’s matchup with Bellarmine, Mark Pope addressed the concern everyone in Big Blue Nation was waiting on — Jaland Lowe’s injury status. His update immediately caught fans’ attention and shifted the conversation after the win.
Think it’s just routine coach talk? Wait until you hear exactly what Pope said — BBN will be reading between every line.
Kentucky fans were left searching for answers after Jaland Lowe was held out of the Wildcats’ win over Bellarmine. After the final horn, Mark Pope finally provided them.
Lowe did not play in Kentucky’s 99–85 victory as the program continues to manage a lingering shoulder issue that has already dislocated twice since October and reportedly shifted again during Saturday’s win over St. John’s. With a short break in the schedule, Kentucky opted to take the cautious route.
Despite being without their starting point guard, the Wildcats leaned on ball movement to survive a game that stayed closer than expected. Denzel Aberdeen, Jasper Johnson, and Otega Oweh combined for 21 assists, helping Kentucky steady itself offensively.
After the game, Pope confirmed Lowe was held out due to soreness — not a setback.
“He had a little bit of soreness, just a little bit of pain, so we made the calculated decision,” Pope said. “When he steps on the floor, I want him to be full-strength. That’s important for us going forward.
Pope also made it clear that Lowe’s absence should not be viewed as a long-term concern.
“I expect him to play every game,” Pope added. “This was just an opportunity to let him heal up a little bit more. Sometimes there’s a big difference between 48 hours and 96 or even 120 hours.
As of now, there is no indication Lowe will miss Kentucky’s SEC opener at Alabama on January 3. The extra rest is expected to help stabilize his shoulder and prepare him for the physical grind of conference play.
For Kentucky, the message was simple: patience now to avoid bigger problems later — and reassurance for a fanbase eager for clarity.
