UPDATE: Kentucky coach Mark Pope just announced that sophomore star Jayden Quaintance will not sit out the upcoming season as he continues his recovery from a torn ACL. Speaking at SEC Media Day in Birmingham, Alabama, Pope emphasized that there is “no chance” Quaintance will skip this season to focus on rehabilitation and preparation for the NBA.
Quaintance, a 6-foot-10 forward and Arizona State transfer, is projected as the sixth pick in ESPN’s latest 2026 mock draft. Pope, a former NBA player, has been cautious with Quaintance’s rehab, acknowledging the significance of his future but also expressing confidence in his immediate return to the court. “He’s too talented. He’s worked too hard,” Pope stated.
Kentucky is currently ranked ninth in the Associated Press preseason top-25 poll. The team’s ranking has generated excitement among both fans and players, with Pope expressing that a ninth national championship “is our future destiny.”
While more good news emerged with Otega Oweh being named SEC preseason player of the year, the focus remains on Quaintance’s recovery, which could be pivotal for the Wildcats’ championship ambitions. In his previous appearances, Quaintance showcased his skills by frustrating top players, including Wooden Award winner Cooper Flagg, and scoring 18 points in just 26 minutes against Kansas State before his injury.
His teammates are eager for his return. Denzel Aberdeen, the Florida transfer who contributed to the Gators’ national title victory, praised Quaintance’s relentless work ethic. “He is always dribbling a basketball everywhere he goes… From 7 a.m., he doesn’t leave until about 6 or 7 p.m.,” Aberdeen shared. “He’s been in and out of the treatment room doing what he has to do to get back, fast and quick.”
Pope has not specified a definitive date for Quaintance’s return, but he expressed astonishment at the player’s recovery progress, stating, “We’re all kind of shaking our heads like, ‘How is this humanly possible?'” He anticipates that Quaintance will become a crucial contributor for the Wildcats this season before potentially heading to the NBA.
As the Wildcats prepare for the season ahead, the basketball community will be closely monitoring Quaintance’s recovery. Pope’s confidence in his return is palpable, and fans are hopeful that this talented forward will soon take the court again, energizing the team’s quest for glory.
