In a surprising twist from the Team USA U19 training camp, Kentucky Wildcats freshman center Malachi Moreno has exited the squad due to a minor injury, according to a report from KSR’s Jack Pilgrim.
Moreno, who was widely expected to secure a spot on the final roster, reportedly suffered the injury during recent camp activities. After medical evaluation, a mutual decision was made between Moreno’s camp and Team USA officials for him to step away from the event — purely as a precaution.
Meanwhile, his fellow incoming Wildcat Jasper Johnson advanced past the first round of roster cuts and remains in the mix to make Team USA’s final squad.
With Mark Pope — Kentucky’s head coach — actively involved in the camp as an instructor, the decision to shut Moreno down early was no doubt influenced by the need to avoid risking his long-term health. Pope’s first season with the Wildcats was riddled with injuries, and another setback to a key piece of the roster is the last thing the program needs heading into a crucial summer.
Adding to the concern is the continued absence of Jayden Quaintance, the projected starting big man who’s still rehabbing from an ACL injury. With Quaintance out indefinitely, Moreno was expected to play a major role in Kentucky’s frontcourt rotation.
Fortunately, Moreno’s injury is not believed to be serious, and all signs point to him rejoining the Wildcats for summer practice sessions soon.
Stay tuned to A Sea of Blue for the latest updates as Kentucky basketball gears up for the new season.
