Kentucky head coach Mark Pope shared an update on point guard Lamont Butler’s status ahead of Saturday’s critical matchup against Gonzaga. Butler, who has been instrumental to the Wildcats’ success, is dealing with an ankle injury that may sideline him for the game. “This ankle is a little bit of an issue, but we’ll see,” Pope said before Kentucky’s Friday flight to Seattle. “We’re super hopeful that we’ll get him back.”
Kentucky coach Mark Pope says Lamont Butler’s ankle is “a little bit of an issue.”
— Jacob Polacheck (@PolacheckKSR) December 5, 2024
Says he’s hopeful Butler will be back for Gonzaga. pic.twitter.com/wRG8t2ou22
Butler injured his ankle in the second half versus Clemson. The injury came as he drove to the basket and came down awkwardly rolling his ankle, leaving him rolling in pain for a few moments. He would momentarily leave the floor only to come back in a few minutes later.
Butler’s importance to Kentucky cannot be overstated. In the loss to Clemson, he posted a team-best plus-minus of +17. Without him on the court, Kentucky was outscored by 21 points, underscoring his role as the engine of the team. Point Guards are often described as the "straw that stirs the drink," and that fits Lamont. Butler’s presence on the floor brings stability and effectiveness to both ends of the court.
Lamont Butler only played 19 minutes vs. Clemson due to foul trouble and an ankle injury and still scored 16 points and led UK in efficiency (+17).
— Tyler Thompson (@MrsTylerKSR) December 4, 2024
Afterward, Mark Pope said he was rethinking his decision to limit Butler's minutes, especially early on.https://t.co/M7LuUugGPG pic.twitter.com/8o7gIO8O50
Pope lauded Butler’s growth this season, particularly in his efficiency and decision-making. “His numbers are unbelievable,” Pope said. “For a fifth-year guy, he’s been really willing to grow and adopt some things for us. His shooting percentage from two-point range is at 65%, a career-high after never exceeding 48% in his first four years. His assist-to-turnover ratio is off the charts.”
Butler’s humility and willingness to learn have made him a cornerstone of Kentucky’s game plan, Pope going as far as calling him the "foundation" of the team. However, should he miss Saturday’s game, the Wildcats will need to adapt.
Pope expressed confidence in freshman Travis Perry, a Kentucky native, to step up if needed. “I have a lot of confidence in Travis Perry. He’s a terrific and heady player, immensely capable, and definitely a viable option,” Pope added.
Losing Butler against Gonzaga’s high-powered offense would be a significant blow for Kentucky. However, the team’s depth and Perry’s potential could provide a temporary solution. With Butler’s return uncertain, the Wildcats face a tall task against one of the nation’s most potent offenses, and their resilience will once again be tested in Seattle.