Xavier got the worst news possible on Monday when an MRI revealed that sophomore guard Edmond Sumner suffered a season-ending torn ACL in his left knee in Xavier’s game vs. St. John’s at Madison Square Garden on Sunday.
A date for surgery has yet to be determined.
Sumner is Xavier’s second-leading scorer at 14.4 points per game to go with 4.9 assists and 4.4 rebounds.
He is projected as the No. 23 pick in the NBA Draft by DraftExpress.com.
“I am devastated for Edmond,” said Xavier coach Chris Mack. “Unfortunately, sometimes bad things happen to great people. Through diligent rehab, hard work and prayer I know Ed will return to the court better than ever. He’s an awesome kid, a fearless competitor and a terrific teammate. I’m going to miss coaching him the rest of the year. As far as our current team is concerned, our goals have not changed. Next man up.”
In a season in which Creighton’s Maurice Watson (ACL) and Indiana’s OG Anunoby (knee) are already down with season-ending injuries, Sumner’s injury is just the latest to befall the sport. Two of those players — Watson and Sumner — also play in the Big East.
Without Sumner, Quentin Goodin will play a large role at the point for Xavier.
“I feel like it’s my job as a point guard to come in and run the team,” he said. “That’s been my whole goal this season.”
Photo: Xavier Athletics
And like ZAGS on Facebook
