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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.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n 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.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n In a statement, the University of Kentucky Athletics Department acknowledged the incident and said it is cooperating fully with an internal investigation.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n > \u201cWe are aware of the situation involving one of our student-athletes and a member of the local media,\u201d the statement read. \u201cThe university takes these matters seriously, and we are working to gather all the facts before making any further comment.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n 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.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n > \u201cMr. Carter maintains that he did not engage in any physical misconduct and looks forward to the investigation clearing his name.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n 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.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n 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.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"