Zvonimir Ivišić will not be with Kentucky as the Wildcats take on Indiana State on Friday night at home.

The program announced that news on Friday afternoon. Per a team statement, Ivišić’s absence is excused. Ivišić is being given “extra time” at home in Croatia following the holiday break.

Kentucky said Ivišić is expected to return to the team next week.

Ivišić has yet to debut for Kentucky this season due to an eligibility case that the NCAA has yet to rule on. The center has struggled with illness as he has tried to acclimate himself to life in Lexington.

Coach John Calipari acknowledged Ivišić difficulties last week, saying Ivišić has lost more than 20 pounds and hasn’t been sleeping or eating.

 

The Wildcats are big favorites over Illinois State on Friday evening. As of now, Ivišić is expected to be back with the team in time for Kentucky’s game against Florida on Jan. 6.