Home Customer Service Stay Connected Read today’s Edition Best of Middle Georgia News Sports Living & Entertainment Opinion Obituaries Video Featured Reality Check Uniquely Best of Middle Georgia Shopping/Reviews Deals & Offers Press Releases Sponsored Content Classifieds Place an Ad – Celebrations Search Jobs Search Legal Notices Advertising $1.99/6mo WELCOME OFFER CLAIM SPORTS Jaxson Robinson Ruled Out for Kentucky Basketball’s Clash Against Tennessee By Alec Elijah Athlon Sports Updated February 11, 2025 2:10 PM The Kentucky Wildcats will be without a key piece of their lineup when they take on the No. 5 Tennessee Volunteers on Tuesday night. According to the SEC’s official availability report, fifth-year guard Jaxson Robinson has been ruled out due to a wrist injury suffered during practice last Friday. Robinson’s absence leaves a major void in the Wildcats’ backcourt as they look to secure a crucial SEC victory at Rupp Arena. Robinson’s Injury and Recent Performance Robinson sustained a right wrist injury in a collision during practice, which head coach Mark Pope described as “scary.” While initial X-rays returned clean, the discomfort persisted, leading to further evaluation. Despite being listed as questionable, Robinson played through the pain against South Carolina, logging 20 minutes and contributing six points, five rebounds, and four assists in an 80-57 victory. However, it became apparent that he was not at full strength, and his condition had not improved sufficiently for him to play against Tennessee. During his radio show on Monday night, Coach Pope acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Robinson’s availability, calling it a “game-time decision.” Hours later, Robinson was officially listed as out, confirming the Wildcats would have to adjust their game plan without one of their most dynamic scorers. The fifth-year guard has been averaging 13.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game this season, making him a critical component of Kentucky’s offense. Impact on Kentucky’s Lineup Robinson played a pivotal role in Kentucky’s upset win over Tennessee on Jan. 28, scoring 17 points and making four three-pointers while also providing strong defensive pressure on Tennessee point guard Zakai Zeigler. His absence will require Kentucky to look elsewhere for offensive production and perimeter defense.
With Robinson sidelined Kentucky may turn to graduate senior wing Koby Brea to step into the starting lineup. Additionally, freshmen Collin Chandler and Trent Noah are expected to see increased minutes off the bench. Pope emphasized that he expects the younger players to step up in Robinson’s absence, noting their contributions in the previous game against Tennessee when the Wildcats were also shorthanded.
Other Injury Concerns for Kentucky Robinson is not the only Wildcat dealing with an injury. Fellow fifth-year guard Kerr Kriisa remains out with a foot injury and is “a ways away” from returning, according to Pope. Additionally, guard Lamont Butler, who has been battling a shoulder issue, is listed as probable, while forward Andrew Carr continues to deal with a back injury. As Kentucky (16-7, 5-5 SEC) prepares to face Tennessee (20-4, 7-4 SEC), the Wildcats will need to find ways to compensate for Robinson’s absence. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, with ESPN providing live coverage from Rupp Arena.
