If you think losing center John Egbunu for the season to a torn ACL costs the Florida Gators only 22 minutes and 7.8 points per game, we suggest you go back and take a look at some of the team’s games in a thrilling run to 21-5 and a first-place tie in the Southeastern Conference.
Egbunu has been a massive athletic presence for the Gators through the course of the 2016-17 season. He delivered six double-figure rebound games, often against some of the team’s most challenging opponents: 10 against Seton Hall, 12 against Duke, a double-double of 10 points and 11 rebounds in Saturday’s victory over Texas A&M.
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That was Egbunu’s last full game for Florida this season. He was injured early in the team’s 114-95 victory Tuesday over Auburn. He is a 6-11, 255-pound native of Nigeria who began his career at South Florida and transferred to UF after one season. He set the program’s record for most dunks in a single season last year as a sophomore. Egbunu had started 19 games this season and was averaging 6.6 rebounds and 1.5 blocks.
With Egbunnu hurt against Auburn, the Gators played more frequently with a smaller lineup that included 6-6 wing Canyon Barry, who scored 30 points in only his third 30-minute appearance of the season.
Florida’s medical personnel projected the recovery time for Egbunu’s injury at 10-12 months. How that will affect his 2017-18 season is uncertain.
“We’re all disappointed for John,” coach Mike White said in a statement released by the school. “He’s been playing really well of late, so it’s a tough blow to him and our team. He’s a great young man, and unfortunately injuries are a part of basketball. He’ll be back even stronger.”