University of Kentucky basketball star Jalen Carter is under investigation following an alleged physical altercation with a local sports journalist after a post-practice media session earlier this week, school officials confirmed on Saturday.
According to sources present during the incident, tensions escalated between Carter and Lexington Daily reporter Mark Reynolds during a brief exchange after Carter declined to answer a question about his recent on-court performance. Witnesses claim Carter appeared agitated and made physical contact with Reynolds, though the extent of the altercation remains unclear.
In a statement, the University of Kentucky Athletics Department acknowledged the incident and said it is cooperating fully with an internal investigation.
> “We are aware of the situation involving one of our student-athletes and a member of the local media,” the statement read. “The university takes these matters seriously, and we are working to gather all the facts before making any further comment.”
Jalen Carter, a sophomore forward and projected first-round NBA draft pick, has not publicly addressed the allegations. His attorney, Rachel Thomas, issued a brief statement Saturday afternoon denying any wrongdoing.
> “Mr. Carter maintains that he did not engage in any physical misconduct and looks forward to the investigation clearing his name.”
The alleged altercation has sparked discussions about athlete-media relations and the pressures faced by college players under national scrutiny. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) and NCAA have not yet issued any comments.
No formal charges have been filed as of Sunday morning. University officials stated that disciplinary actions, if any, will be determined following the conclusion of the investigation.
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