As the Sweet 16 tips off tonight, a handful of key injuries could shape the outcomes of these critical matchups. With four games on tap, teams are making final preparations while managing player health concerns.
From Kentucky’s season-ending setback to Auburn’s multiple minor ailments, medical updates will be closely monitored as tipoff approaches. Let’s examine the latest injury news as teams battle for Elite Eight berths.
Friday’s Injury Report
Jaxson Robinson – Kentucky
Kentucky’s championship hopes took a devastating hit when senior guard Jaxson Robinson suffered a right wrist fracture against LSU on February 25. The 6’6″ BYU transfer, who averaged 13.0 points while shooting 37.8% from deep, underwent surgery on March 1 and is definitively out for the season.
Robinson’s absence leaves a significant void in Kentucky’s perimeter scoring ahead of their clash with Tennessee. The Wildcats have relied on Koby Brea (15.5 PPG in tournament play) and freshman Collin Chandler to fill the gap, managing a 2-0 record against the Volunteers this season despite missing Robinson in their second matchup.
Sam Walters – Michigan
Michigan forward Sam Walters remains sidelined for the Sweet 16 with a lower back disc injury that has kept him out since February 8. The 6’10” sophomore sharpshooter hasn’t played in Michigan’s last 13 games, including their entire NCAA Tournament run.
Before his injury, Walters averaged 5.8 PPG and 2.9 RPG while shooting 38.1% from three in 12.7 minutes per game. His absence has hurt Michigan’s perimeter shooting forcing coach Dusty May to rely more heavily on frontcourt players Wolf and Goldin against Auburn’s athletic lineup.
Chris Moore – Auburn
Auburn senior forward Chris Moore sprained his ankle in the first-round victory over Alabama State on March 22. After sitting out the second-round win against Creighton, Moore returned to full practice on Tuesday and Thursday, with coach Bruce Pearl confirming his likely availability against Michigan.
Despite limited playing time, Moore’s defensive tenacity and energy off the bench provide valuable depth for the Tigers. His return strengthens Auburn’s rotation as they prepare to counter Michigan’s imposing frontcourt featuring 7-footers such as Danny Wolf and Vlad Goldin.
Dylan Cardwell – Auburn
Auburn center Dylan Cardwell briefly exited the Creighton game with leg cramps but returned to finish with six points, six rebounds, and two blocks. After four days of rest, he’s fully recovered and practiced without limitations on Thursday.
As Johni Broome’s primary backup, Cardwell’s 5.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game make him a crucial defensive anchor. His 68.4% shooting efficiency and rim protection will be essential against Michigan’s towering frontcourt duo of Wolf and Goldin, who combine for nearly 30 points per game.
Chad Baker-Mazara – Auburn
Auburn’s second-leading scorer, Chad Baker-Mazara, sustained a hip contusion against Creighton on March 24. Despite visibly grimacing and requiring an ice pack, the junior wing finished with 17 points and scored 12 after the injury occurred.
Baker-Mazara participated fully in Thursday’s practice despite occasionally stretching his hip between drills. His scoring ability and defensive versatility are critical to Auburn’s championship aspirations, making his health status one of the most significant variables in tonight’s matchup against Michigan.
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As teams prepare for tonight’s battles, these injury situations could prove decisive in determining who advances to the Elite Eight. Kentucky must continue adapting without Robinson, while Auburn hopes their trio of recovering players can perform at full capacity.
Despite no presence of Sam Walters, Michigan enters with a good roster potentially giving them an advantage if Auburn’s players aren’t at 100%.
With championship dreams hanging in the balance every physical limitation becomes magnified on college basketball’s biggest stage.
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