Three Wildcats Make Big Dance Debut on Thursday at NCAA Championships

MINNEAPOLIS – Kentucky men’s swimming & diving team completed day two at the 2023 NCAA Men’s Swimming & Diving Championships on Thursday as four Wildcats were in action with three making their NCAA debuts at the Jean K. Freeman Aquatic Center.

The morning session began with the 500 freestyle where Levi Sandidge and Nick Caruso each swam for the first time on the national stage for Kentucky. Sandidge, who owns the country’s top time in the mile this season, clocked a 4:24.68 to place 46th, while Caruso touched the wall in 4:16.92 to take 30th.

Freshman Ryan Merani was the third Wildcat to make his first NCAA appearance on Thursday, placing 55th in the 200 IM with a time of 1:46.75.

Sam Duncan represented UK in the 1-meter diving competition, posting a 21st place finish with a score of 336.45. Duncan registered three dives which scored over 60 points, including each of his final two efforts.

The 2023 NCAA Men’s Swimming & Diving Championships continue tomorrow with Kentucky scheduled to compete in the 400 IM, 200 freestyle and three-meter diving. Sandidge, Merani, Duncan and Max Berg are all expected to be in action. Prelims will begin at 10 a.m. and can be seen live on ESPN+.

For the latest on UK Swim & Dive, follow the Wildcats on Twitter and Instagram at @UKSwimDive, and on Facebook at Kentucky Swimming and Diving.