Wildcats’ star point guard Lamont Butler is set to return for the NCAA Tournament after recovering from a recent shoulder injury. Butler, who averages 11.5 points and 4.3 assists per game, sustained the injury during the Wildcats’ victory over the Oklahoma Sooners. Despite initial concerns, head coach Mark Pope confirmed Butler’s availability, stating the team received the “best possible news” regarding his condition.
Butler’s return is timely for Kentucky, especially after their recent 99-70 loss to Alabama in the SEC Tournament, where his absence was felt. His leadership and defensive prowess will be crucial as the Wildcats, seeded No. 3 in the Midwest Region, prepare to face the 14th-seeded Troy Trojans in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament.
In Butler’s absence, junior guard Otega Oweh stepped up, earning Second-Team All-SEC honors with impressive averages of 16.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. Oweh’s performance has been pivotal for Kentucky, and with Butler’s return, the Wildcats aim to make a deep run in the tournament.
The team remains optimistic, viewing the upcoming tournament as a “dream come true,” and is eager to showcase their full potential with Butler back on the court.
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