By Bill Koch
The Cincinnati Enquirer

University of Cincinnati forward Armein Kirkland was unable to practice Monday and is doubtful for Wednesday's game at Marquette.

Kirkland, who sprained his left knee last week at Tulane, said he "ran a little, but didn't practice for real. I can't do lateral movement too well."

The 6-8 sophomore, who did not play Saturday against DePaul, averages 6.8 points and 2.2 rebounds and had started nine of UC's first 10 games before missing Saturday's game. He is also a key part of UC's press.

He said his availability for Wednesday will be a game-time decision, but UC coach Bob Huggins said: that's not the case.

"If you don't practice, you don't play. " Huggins said. " If he doesn't go tomorrow, he won't make the trip."

KARL VISITS: Former Milwaukee Bucks and Seattle SuperSonics coach George Karl stopped by Fifth Third Arena on Monday and addressed the UC players for about a half hour after practice.

"I've been going around visiting my coaches and friends," Karl said. "This is the first year in 38 years without a team."

Karl, a long-time friend of Huggins', said he was enjoying staying connected to the game without having to worry about wins and losses.

Karl, who lives in Milwaukee, said the UC-Marquette game would be a battle between UC's "defense and intensity and Marquette's cuteness on offense, although they play very hard."

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E-mail bkoch@enquirer.com