University of Florida basketball star Keyontae Johnson remains in critical but stable condition and is “following simple commands,” according to a statement Monday from the school.
Johnson was successfully transported to UF Health in Gainesville, Florida, after spending the past two days at Tallahassee Memorial and is undergoing further tests, according to the school.
Before Florida released its statement, Johnson’s grandfather, Larry DeJarnett, told USA Today on Monday that Johnson was in a medically induced coma and that doctors hoped to bring him out of it that afternoon.
Florida team spokesperson Denver Parler said the team did not practice on Monday, although the team’s facility was open to players who wanted to work out or lift weights. The Gators’ upcoming game against North Florida, scheduled for Wednesday in Gainesville, is off, a source told ESPN on Monday night, confirming a CBS Sports report.
Johnson fell face-first while heading back onto the court after a first-half timeout in Florida’s game against Florida State on Saturday. His teammates immediately called for medical attention, while players on both teams were visibly upset. Johnson was given emergency medical attention and stretchered off the court before being rushed to Tallahassee Memorial. Several players on both teams were in tears on the sideline after the incident.
The Associated Press reported that Johnson tested positive for COVID-19 during the summer, although the cause of Johnson’s collapse is unknown at this time. Coronavirus can lead to myocarditis, a viral infection that can lead to inflammation of the heart muscle.
Johnson’s immediate family is with him in Gainesville, according to the school, which said in another statement Monday that they would “make known any needs that he & his family might have” as the situation becomes more clear.
Johnson, an All-SEC selection as a sophomore, was averaging 19.7 points and 6.0 rebounds through three games this season and was a projected first-round pick in the 2021 NBA draft.
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