Ryan Harrow Set to Return for Kentucky Wildcats

It’s been an up-and-down season to say the least so far for Kentucky Wildcats point guard Ryan Harrow, but the 6-foot-2 sophomore returned to practice Sunday, hopefully this time for good.

After battling the flu over the first week or so of the season, the transfer from Marietta, Georgia – who averaged 9.3 points per game as a freshman at North Carolina State – tried to return to the hardwood last week, but went home for a good portion of the week to deal with a family issue. CBS Sports reported earlier that Harrow indeed participated in practice Sunday afternoon, and he felt great doing so.

“I’m feeling much better, and it felt really good to get back on the practice court with the guys today,” Harrow said in a statement. “Unfortunately, when I started feeling better, I had an issue to tend to with my family over the holiday break. Everything is good with that now.”

The young Wildcats team has looked good up to this point, really only struggling against likely number-one Duke, but with the return of Harrow they should continue to excel, and really grow heading into SEC play. Harrow’s return means freshman guard Archie Goodwin can return to his natural position on the wing, and even though he’s served as a more than competent point guard, he’ll be even more effective if he’s able to focus solely on scoring and playing off of the ball.

Harrow’s return should also create better looks for big men Kyle Wiltjer and Nerlens Noel, who have gotten off to relatively slow starts compared to their wing players Goodwin and fellow freshman Alex Poythress.

We’ve seen how good, check that, great, John Calipari point guards have been the last few (really five or so) seasons, and with the offense intended to be run threw Harrow, keep your eyes out for this kid over the next few weeks.

For hoops, hip-hop and other random sports and pop culture commentary, follow Jared Mintz on Twitter @JaredMintzTruth