VCU's Lewis won't return after injuring ankle vs. Illinois
GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) — VCU guard Nyk Lewis had to be helped off the court by trainers following a right ankle injury in the opening minute of the Rams’ second-round NCAA Tournament game Saturday against No. 3 seed Illinois.
VCU’s Nyk Lewis suffered an ankle sprain a minute into the game and will not return, spokesman told @TheFieldOf68.
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) March 22, 2026
Rams down 23-17 to Illinois.
Lewis was injured when he landed awkwardly on a teammate’s foot while trying to come down with a defensive rebound.
He could not put any pressure on his ankle as he was helped to the team bench. Trainers took off his right shoe and began to evaluate the injury while he writhed in pain.
His status for the remainder of the game is uncertain.
Lewis had two key free throws in overtime to seal No. 11 seed VCU’s first-round upset of North Carolina on Thursday. Lewis game into the game averaging 8.9 points and 4.6 rebounds.
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