Is Kentucky Basketball cursed? The injury report just keeps growing

If you feel that Kentucky Basketball has been just one big injury after another since Mark Pope took over, you’d be right.

The injury report is becoming nearly as impressive as his 11 wins versus top-30 NET-ranked teams, something no other coach hired in 2024 can say.

But despite the success on the court, Kentucky just can’t seem to catch a break. Star players are finding their way to the trainer’s table just as often as they find their way to the starting lineup.

A history of hurt

This isn’t a new problem. Last year, the training staff earned their paychecks and then some:

• Kerr Kriisa: Fractured foot, done for the year.
• Andrew Carr: Back issues lingered on and off for most of the season; there were weeks he couldn’t even practice.
• Lamont Butler: Dealt with an injured shoulder that limited his effectiveness for most of the year. Also sprained his ankle and missed two games.
• Brandon Garrison: Missed time with nagging issues.
• Jaxson Robinson: His wrist finally gave out late in the year, ending his season prematurely.
• Travis Perry: Sprained his wrist in the SEC Tournament. Missed the Round of 32 vs. Illinois and the Sweet 16 vs. Tennessee.

If you were hoping the summer reset would bring better luck, think again. The bug bit early and hasn’t let go.

The current MASH unit

Otega Oweh missed nearly the entire summer with a toe injury. Jaland Lowe’s shoulder didn’t make it to the regular season without being separated, and eventually, he had to be shut down completely.

The list goes on:

• Trent Noah: Missed time with an ankle injury.
• Mo Dioubate: Missed a crucial run of games.
• Jayden Quaintance: Made a comeback early only to see knee swelling sideline him again; he has missed the last four games.
• Kam Williams: The latest casualty, breaking his foot against Texas, and most likely done for the year.

That is not a basketball team; that is a MASH unit.

At some point, Kentucky needs to go talk to Joe Maddon about ending curses.

So, what do you think is causing this? Is it really just bad luck? Or is there some fixable issue UK needs to identify and address?

Let us hear your thoughts in the comments section!