Gators All-SEC forward Keyontae Johnson collapsed on the court during the opening minutes of UF’s 83-71 loss Saturday morning at Florida morning and was in critical but stable condition after being transported to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.
Following the Gators’ seventh straight loss to their in-state rivals, coach Mike White did not address reporters and no further updates were available on Johnson’s condition, UF spokesman Denver Parler said.
White did share his thoughts on Twitter, writing, “Please keep praying for @Keyontae and his family. We all love him.”
White remained in Tallahassee with Johnson, who UF officials said would remain in the hospital overnight. Meanwhile, Florida players, assistant coaches and support staff returned to Gainesville by bus.
White, who has coached Johnson the past three seasons, was visibly shaken and teammates Noah Locke and Scottie Lewis cried after the 21-year-old forward exited the Gators’ huddle after timeout, collapsed and subsequently was carried away on a stretcher by medical personnel.
Sophomore guard Tre Mann also shared his feelings on Twitter, writing, “I know you’re fighting bro God got you.”
Florida State coach Leonard Hamilton, 72, said Johnson’s collapse affected the Seminoles, too. Some players shed tears and several kneeled in prayer in the team huddle, Hamilton said.
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