Is Tyler Kolek playing tonight vs UConn? Looking at Marquette guard's availability for Big East tournament

Marquette Golden Eagles guard Tyler Kolek has been a part of the team since transferring from George Mason ahead of the 2021 season.

The Golden Eagles are preparing to take on the No. 2 ranked UConn Huskies in the Big East championship today at Madison Square Garden. But is Tyler Kolek going to be a participant?

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Is Tyler Kolek playing tonight vs. UConn?

The Marquette guard will not be playing in the Big East championship game.

Kolek has been on the sidelines after suffering from an oblique injury he sustained during Marquette's victory over Providence last month. This led to him missing out on the last three regular-season games as well as the opening games of the Big East tournament.

On Thursday, before their quarterfinal against Villanova, Marquette head coach Shaka Smart provided an update on Kolek's status, saying that they are expecting him to rehabilitate and be ready for the upcoming NCAA tournament.

"He's still day-to-day and not planning on playing tomorrow, but he's close. He practiced for part of our session today, and he's been working out and continues to get treatment. The plan is absolutely for him to play next week, and he's made really good progress," Smart said.

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How did Tyler Kolek injure himself?

During Marquette's 91-69 victory over Providence last month, Kolek sustained the injury after awkwardly twisting his body while attempting a pass on the court.

This led to him being sidelined for the entire second half and the rest of the regular season and Big East tournament games against Villanova and Providence.

Before his injury, Tyler Kolek was a huge part of the team's success, averaging 15.0 points, 4.7 rebounds and 7.6 assists. Last season, he was named the Big East Player of the Year for helping his team win both the regular season and conference tournament titles.