Jaxson Robinson earns national honor, track and field qualifies for Championships

The University of Kentucky is a complete program, and these award nominations prove it.
Mar 1, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Jaxson Robinson fives Kentucky Wildcats forward Andrew Carr before the game against the Auburn Tigers at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images
Mar 1, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Jaxson Robinson fives Kentucky Wildcats forward Andrew Carr before the game against the Auburn Tigers at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images | Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

Kentucky forward Jaxson Robinson has officially been nominated for the prestigious Julius Erving Award, which is given annually to the best small forward in college basketball. Robinson has been a vital piece of the Wildcats’ success this season, showcasing elite shooting ability, versatility, and defensive prowess.

Robinson has been a reliable scoring option for Kentucky, consistently knocking down shots from beyond the arc while also proving to be an asset on the defensive end at times. His ability to stretch the floor and create his own shot has made him one of the most dynamic wings in college basketball. With his nomination for the Julius Erving Award, he joins an elite list of players vying for the honor, which recognizes the top-performing small forward in the country.

Though he season and Wildcat career was cut short by a wrist injury, his impact will be felt on the team as he roots on from the sideline.

Kentucky Track and Field excels

While Robinson continues to shine on the hardwood, Kentucky’s indoor track and field team is also making waves. Ten members of the Wildcats’ squad have qualified for the NCAA Indoor National Championships, set to take place March 14-15 in Virginia Beach, Va.

Leading the charge is Carli Makarawu, who currently holds the nation’s second-fastest time in the 200m event with a blazing 20.20 time recorded at the SEC Championships. This historic mark makes Makarawu the fastest 200m athlete in Kentucky program history.

In the field events, Luke Brown stands out in the triple jump, ranking second overall among Division I competitors. His performances this season have solidified him as one of the top jumpers in the country, and he’ll look to bring home a national title for the Wildcats.

Full List of Kentucky NCAA Indoor Championship Qualifiers:

  • Carli Makarawu – Men’s 200m
  • Luke Brown – Men’s Triple Jump
  • Alexis Glasco – Women’s 60m Hurdles
  • Kate Powers – Women’s Weight Throw
  • Women’s 4x400m Relay Team: Hannah Douglas, Cha’iel Johnson, Oneika McAnnuff, and Stacey Onyepunka (Alternates: A’Laji Bradley, Sharmelle Holmes)

With multiple top-tier athletes representing Kentucky on the national stage, it’s clear that both the basketball and track programs are thriving. Robinson’s nomination for the Julius Erving Award is a testament to his elite skill set, while the track team’s dominance highlights the depth of talent within Kentucky athletics. As both seasons reach their peak, Wildcats fans have plenty to be excited about in the coming weeks.