by Justin L. Abrotsky, USA TODAY Sports

Kentucky’s 19-point loss to the sixth-ranked Florida Gators probably hurts, but the bigger issue for the Wildcats is the injury of Nerlens Noel.

The Wildcats’ star freshman (who recently set a school record with 12 blocks against Ole Miss) had a rough landing after jumping to block a fast-break layup by Florida’s Mike Rosario.

Noel’s left foot hit the padded base of the basket and he appeared to hyperextend his leg. Noel fell over and screamed in pain as he was attended to by Kentucky’s staff. His teammates helped carry him off the court.

Florida would go on to win the rivalry week game, 69-52.

Kyle Tucker of the Louisville (Ky.) Courier-Journal tweeted reactions by Kentucky coach John Calipari from the post-game press conference:

Calipari on Noel: “I’m physically sick right now for him. What I’m hoping for is it’s not the extreme. I’m hoping it’s just a twist.”

— Kyle Tucker (@KyleTucker_CJ)

February 13, 2013

Cal says Noel going to local hospital for testing. Didn’t see much of the play but was told “it looked ugly.”

— Kyle Tucker (@KyleTucker_CJ)

February 13, 2013

… [For more on Nerlens Noel suffers ugly leg injury in loss to Florida, click here.]