Monday Headlines: Bryce Hopkins Edition

“He was probably the biggest surprise (before the injury).”

By John Morgan Francis@MonJorgan Oct 11, 2021, 6:40am EDT

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At the pro day for Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball, head coach John Calipari hinted at who has been the biggest surprise of his 2021 team. Calipari detailed that freshman forward Bryce Hopkins had really impressed before developing a back injury.

John Calipari says Bryce Hopkins dealing with back strain https://t.co/MPKTKruQfL
— Keith Peel (@bigblueview56) October 11, 2021

Though Kentucky missed out on a couple of big-time recruits/transfers for their front-court, it appears the Wildcats can still go six deep with Damion Collins, Jacob Toppin, Keion Brooks, Lance Ware, Oscar Tshiebwe and Hopkins. This roster should closely resemble the 2014-2015 “platoon” team and Hopkins appearing to exceed expectations before the season even begins is a good sign that he’ll receive significant minutes.

However, Hopkins can’t take the court if he’s injured and his “back injury” is certainly worth monitoring as we are now less than 30 days from the Wildcats’ season debut vs. Duke. It’s worth noting that Jerry Tipton reported Hopkins, along with CJ Fredrick & Toppin, has missed practice time due to injury.

Cal: Bryce Hopkins, CJ Fredrick and Jacob Toppin have missed practice time. The hope is to have every player practicing next week
— Jerry Tipton (@JerryTipton) October 10, 2021

The good news is, thanks to Kentucky’s incredible depth, Hopkins shouldn't be rushed back from injury and will be full strength when he’s cleared for game action.

Tweet of the Day

Stop it bro

This guys elusiveness, vision and breakaway speed are phenomenal. pic.twitter.com/fmcekiVcS1
— Erik Turner (@ErikJTurner) October 10, 2021

Thankful Chubb won’t be on the field for Georgia this Saturday.