If we were talking a couple of weeks ago, the obvious statement would be, “Kentucky can’t possibly lose to a winless team.” But looking at their current momentum (or lack thereof), well, let’s just say things aren’t so black and white anymore. The Wildcats have lost four of their last five games, and the last two have been downright brutal. Meanwhile, South Carolina is still chasing that elusive first conference win, making the Saturday game a high-stakes matchup for both squads.
That said, Kentucky’s second half on Tuesday night gives at least a sliver of hope. Despite falling 98-84 to Ole Miss, the Wildcats managed to score 53 points in the second half. For a second, it looked like they might actually pull off a miracle.
But trailing by 23 at halftime did cost them big. And the last time they played at Rupp? They suffered a soul-crushing loss to John Calipari’s Arkansas Razorbacks. Now, South Carolina on their home court might just be the medicine Kentucky needs.
But there’s another issue lurking in the shadows for the Wildcats: injuries.
Nov 9, 2024; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach Mark Pope talks with guard Jaxson Robinson (2) after the game against the Bucknell Bison at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images
First, it was Kerr Kriisa, who’s been out for over a month due to a foot injury. Then came more bad news. The SEC injury report dropped on Friday, and it was a mixed bag for the Wildcats.
Point guard Lamont Butler was listed as questionable instead of out, meaning there’s at least a chance he will suit up on Saturday. However, Jaxson Robinson, who has been lighting up SEC play with multiple 20-point performances, is also questionable.
And he has been covering point guard duties with Butler sidelined. If neither plays, Kentucky is going to have a crisis.
As for the Gamecocks, they’ve been dealing with their own injury concerns. Myles Styet has been out since January 6 with an undisclosed injury.
Projected Starting Five
Kentucky Wildcats:
Koby Brea
Adou Thiero
Jaxson Robinson (if available)
Amari Almonor
Otega Oweh
South Carolina Gamecocks:
Nick Pringle
Jacobi Wright
Jamarii Thomas
Zachary Davis
Collin Murray-Boyles
How can Lamont Butler’s Wildcats win?
This isn’t just a game Kentucky should win—it’s one they need to win. But how? So, first things first, Kentucky cannot afford to let South Carolina hang around and gain confidence. The Wildcats need to come out with fire and put the Gamecocks in an early hole. Don’t just lead after four minutes. Straight-up dominate!
Next up, South Carolina averages 35.6 rebounds per game and allows 32.4. Kentucky pull down 40.2 per game. This is an area where the Wildcats can impose their will. More rebounds mean more second-chance points and transition opportunities, two things that could help them avoid another slow start.
Credits: Imagn
And, obviously, they need to force turnovers. Kentucky forced exactly one turnover against Ole Miss. One. That’s unacceptable. South Carolina has been turnover-prone, with 298 assists to 288 turnovers this season.
If Kentucky can ramp up the defensive pressure, force some mistakes, and get out in transition, they can turn this into an easy win. This is a get-right game for Kentucky. They should get back to .500 in SEC play. Predictions already are in their court, hope they enter the game healthy and execute well.
The post Kentucky vs South Carolina: Injury Report, Starting 5 & More as Lamont Butler Return Doubtful In SEC Clash appeared first on EssentiallySports.