Pitino Could Return for Saturday’s Game

Louisville Coach Rick Pitino might sit out only one game after treatment for an undisclosed condition that has caused him pain for months.

Pitino, 51, said Monday he was taking an indefinite leave of absence to determine the cause of the “urological-related” pain in his left side.

He underwent tests Tuesday and was optimistic about returning to work in less than a week.

“I hope to be back coaching by this weekend and resuming full responsibility with our team,” Pitino said in a statement. “It is not a cancer-related or life-threatening matter.”

Assistant Kevin Willard is leading the team in Pitino’s absence.

The No. 4-ranked Cardinals (15-1) have home games against Houston today and Marquette on Saturday.

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Colorado State junior center Matt Nelson strained ligaments in his right knee and is out indefinitely.

Nelson was injured in the Rams’ 89-83 overtime victory over Nevada Las Vegas on Monday.

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Ohio State forward Matt Sylvester will sit out four to six weeks because of a strained arch in his left foot.

Sylvester was injured in the Buckeyes’ 79-65 loss at Iowa on Saturday.