Quaintance's Injury Shadows Kentucky's NCAA Opener

0:00On March 19, Kentucky's men's basketball team faces Santa Clara in the first round of the NCAA tournament in St. Louis. The big news overshadowing the match-up is star Big Man Jake and Quayton's, who's unlikely to return from injury. He's missed most of the season after playing just four games, sidelines since early January with lingering swelling. Quayton's share that while he has the strength, the swelling persists, making a quick ramp up tough. He mentioned limited courtwork so far, and called a return improbable right now. Coach Mark Pope backed that up, expecting the same roster from the SEC tournament, though he left a small door open. Fans online have vented frustration all season, with some harsh accusations like calling Quayton's a thief over his pay, or claiming he's healthy, but… holding out. Quayton's brushes it off, saying he avoids social media. He made Cambliums noted players hear all the noise, but stay professional by not responding. Quayton's described trying platelet-rich plasma shots, steroids, icing, and more, calling

1:04the process frustrating as he watches from the sidelines. Still, he's all in on rehab, determined to beat the swelling, and chase his dream of tournament play. Kentucky tips off against Santa Clara on Friday March 20th, at 1215 PM, Eastern Time on CBS. This three-and-a-half point favorites, though pushed for a third NCAA win under Pope, while Quayton's keeps grinding to get back.