Kentucky's Nerlens Noel Out for Season with Torn ACL
Former No. 6 Overall Pick Injures Knee Against Florida
Surgery Scheduled in Next Two to Three Weeks
Kentucky freshman Nerlens Noel's season -- and likely college career -- are over. The 6-foot-10 Noel suffered a torn ACL midway through the second half in a loss at Florida on Tuesday night.
The injury is a devastating blow for the Wildcats, who were hoping to make another run at a national championship after winning the title last season. Noel was averaging 10.5 points and 9.5 rebounds per game.
The projected recovery period for an ACL tear is six to eight months. That means Noel is unlikely to play again this season and could miss the entire 2013-14 season.
Noel's injury is the latest in a string of setbacks for the Wildcats. Forward Alex Poythress is out for the season with a torn ACL, and guard Archie Goodwin is recovering from a broken foot.
Despite the injuries, Kentucky is still ranked No. 1 in the country. The Wildcats will be looking to Noel to provide leadership and inspiration as they try to overcome adversity.
Noel was the No. 6 overall pick in the 2013 NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. He missed his first season with a torn ACL, but he earned All-Rookie First Team honors in 2014-15.
Noel has played for the Dallas Mavericks, Oklahoma City Thunder, and New York Knicks since leaving Philadelphia.
We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.
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