Florida postpones 3 games as Johnson shows 'encouraging signs of progress'
Florida star forward Keyontae Johnson is showing "encouraging signs of progress" in the hospital after collapsing during Saturday's game against Florida State, Gators athletic director Scott Stricklin said in a statement Thursday.
In the meantime, Florida has postponed three non-conference games next week against Florida Atlantic (Dec. 19), Florida A&M (Dec. 20), and James Madison (Dec. 22).
"This has been an emotionally taxing time for Keyontae's family, friends, and teammates," Stricklin added. "Our hope is that everyone impacted will take an opportunity to process those emotions and regroup ahead of the start of the new year."
Johnson suddenly keeled over in the first half Saturday after leaving a team huddle following a timeout.
The 21-year-old junior was walking toward half court when he unexpectedly fell face-down onto the hardwood. Medics immediately stretchered Johnson off the court and took him to Tallahassee Memorial, where he was later listed in critical but stable condition.
Johnson was transferred to UF Health on Monday to continue undergoing tests and further evaluation, according to Stricklin.
On Wednesday, his parents, Nika and Marrecus Johnson, announced he was in stable condition and breathing on his own. Keyontae had also spoken with them as well as Gators players, the latter in a video call.
Florida also postponed Wednesday's matchup against North Florida. The Gators are next scheduled to play Dec. 30 against Vanderbilt.