Justin Jackson Will Play Against Louisville

Jan 23, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bearcats forward Justin Jackson (5) reacts after a scoring play during the first half of the game against the Central Florida Knights at Fifth Third Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Leifheit-USA TODAY Sports

Bearcats fans got some good news this morning that their senior and do-everything power forward Justin Jackson will play tonight against the Louisville Cardinals.

Word got out after yesterday’s practice that Mick Cronin expected Justin Jackson to play tonight. But there was still an aura of uncertainty behind the Bearcat’s status. The UC head coach could have easily pulled him minutes before tip off without batting an eye. Now, though, we have confirmation that Justin Jackson will be back and anchoring the low post for Cincinnati tonight.

What does this mean with regards to his ankle? Well knowing Mick Cronin, who has been in the business for a long time, he wouldn’t sacrifice risking reinjury to win one game with the fate of the season far from decided. So I have to believe that Justin Jackson’s ankle is effectively 100% and he isn’t feeling any of the effects of rolling it on Sunday against Temple. As such, the risk of reinjury simply by playing in the game against Louisville is minimal. Although that won’t stop me from cringing the first time Jackson hits the deck tonight.