Kentucky’s Kerr Kriisa Ruled Out for Season, Medical Redshirt Likely
In a disappointing turn for the Kentucky Wildcats, head coach Mark Pope has officially confirmed that senior guard Kerr Kriisa will miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season. Kriisa, who has been sidelined since December 7 due to a foot fracture suffered during a game against Gonzaga, has not been able to recover in time for a return.
“We’re past the window now where he could actually get back,” Pope said in a press conference on Thursday. “It’s just been a little bit of a stubborn healing process. We were hopeful earlier in the season, but his recovery just hasn’t gone the way we’d hoped.”
The injury has been a major setback not only for Kriisa personally but also for the Wildcats, who had been counting on his experience and playmaking abilities. Before his injury, Kriisa appeared in nine games, averaging 4.4 points, 3.8 assists, and 2.4 rebounds per game. Despite modest numbers, his leadership and on-court vision were seen as key assets for the team’s backcourt.
Kriisa, a transfer from West Virginia, joined Kentucky with high expectations. Known for his energy and confidence, the 6-foot-3 guard was expected to bring a veteran presence to an otherwise young team. But his time on the court was cut short by the foot injury, which has proven more complicated than initially anticipated.
“It’s tough,” Pope continued. “You hate to see a player like Kerr have his season end this way. He’s worked incredibly hard in his rehab, and I know how much he wanted to be out there with his teammates. But his long-term health has to come first.”
As Kriisa’s season officially comes to a close, discussions around his future have already begun. With his limited participation this season, the possibility of a medical redshirt is on the table. Should the NCAA grant the redshirt, Kriisa would retain an additional year of eligibility, allowing him to return for the 2025-26 season.
“We’ve talked about that option,” Pope said when asked about the potential redshirt. “It’s definitely something we’re considering. It would give Kerr a chance to come back fully healthy and have a real impact next year.”
For the Wildcats, the loss of Kriisa leaves a gap in their rotation. Kentucky’s guard depth will be tested as they push through the remainder of their schedule and prepare for postseason play. Younger players like D.J. Wagner and Reed Sheppard will likely see increased responsibilities in Kriisa’s absence.
Despite the setback, Kriisa remains engaged with the team, attending practices and offering support from the sidelines. His leadership, even off the court, has been praised by coaches and teammates alike.
“I know this isn’t how Kerr wanted this season to go, but he’s been an incredible teammate through it all,” Pope said. “We’re going to miss having him on the court, but we know he’s still a huge part of this team.”
As the Wildcats move forward, all eyes will be on their performance in the coming weeks — and on the potential return of a fully healthy Kerr Kriisa next season.
