Justin Jackson Update: Not Practicing Today, Let The Overreactions Commence

Jan 26, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Cincinnati Bearcats head coach Mick Cronin during the second half against the Temple Owls at the Liacouras Center. Cincinnati defeated Temple 80-76. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Justin Jackson watch continues as we approach the 48 hour mark until Cincinnati’s immense midweek clash with the Louisville Cardinals. As such, Mick Cronin fielded some questions from the media this afternoon regarding his star power forward. Per Bearcat Journal’s Chad Brendel, the UC head coach has held Jackson out of Tuesday’s practice.

This is pretty much the least surprising news you’ll read today. Given the major question marks around the status of Justin Jackson’s lower leg, Mick Cronin is probably erring on the side of caution in this instance. It makes completely logical sense. The UC head coach doesn’t want to risk the senior tweaking anything in practice that could cost him the rest of the season.

And what does this mean for Jackson’s outlook for Thursday? Nothing. While some might read too much into the news that he’s not practicing today, you have to understand that he can miss a day or even a week on the practice court and still play near 100%. The guy is just that good. What’s important now is for Justin Jackson to stay off his feet and rest up in preparation to return to AAC play as soon as he can. Whether that means he comes back as early as the first Louisville game or as late as the second one remains to be seen.