LALAMIE — Kenny Foster’s career with the Cowboys seems to be cursed.
The oft-injured guard endured a series of injuries at Wyoming and will miss the 2023-24 season after tearing his Achilles tendon in practice on Tuesday.
“It’s devastating for him because of all the setbacks he’s had in his career,” UW head coach Jeff Lind said Wednesday night on the Craig Bohl radio show. “It’s hard to say because I spent a lot of time trying to get back to the level of fitness I needed to be.
“It shouldn’t be done for any reason.”
Foster is one of only four returning players from last year’s team, along with Brendan Wenzel, Kaden Powell and walk-on Kurt Robertson.
The 6-foot-5 fifth-year senior from Aurora, Colo., suffered from COVID-19, mononucleosis and strep throat at the same time during UW’s NCAA tournament season two years ago.
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Foster also suffered an ankle injury that limited him to being a spectator in this memorable game.
“It’s definitely bittersweet,” Foster said of the experience last season. “We won. It’s been a great year and I’m happy to be a part of it. I’m happy to be a part of the team, whether I had an impact on it or not. I hope I did that with my voice and everything. Those Guys go out and give it their all. They fight until their last breath every night.
“I’m honored to be a part of it.”
The former Colorado State Gatorade Player of the Year scored 18 points in the Mountain West tournament semifinals as a true freshman. Foster then dealt with the firing of the coach who recruited him, Allen Edwards, who was performing well during the pandemic before suffering a knee injury in Lind’s first season.
Foster was limited to 16 games last season as the Cowboys struggled to finish last in the MW and then lost much of their roster to the transfer portal.
Lind said Foster will continue to be an important part of the Pokes this season as he helps mentor the 10 new players on the roster.
“Our guys really rallied behind him,” Lind said. “It’s tough, but he’s in good spirits for the situation. “He’s going to be a really good assistant coach this year. “
Wisconsin will open the season against Northern New Mexico College on Nov. 7 at Arena Auditorium.
Follow UW beat writer Ryan Thorburn on Twitter @By_RyanThorburn