CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – After just 23 days of recovery, Illinois freshman forward Morez Johnson Jr. has been cleared for action, marking a swift recovery from a broken wrist suffered on February 15 at Michigan State. According to Illinois Basketball’s official social media account, Johnson has passed his medical clearance and is expected to rejoin the Illini lineup in time for the Big Ten Tournament.
The usual recovery time for such an injury is 4-6 weeks, but Johnson’s determination and rigorous recovery process allowed him to return much earlier than anticipated. Following 10 days of complete rest, Johnson spent much of his recovery in the pool to aid his conditioning. His quick return was confirmed over the weekend when head coach Brad Underwood expressed hope that Johnson could return to game action for the Illini during the conference tournament.
Though Johnson is still working to regain full in-game conditioning, his return to action will give the Illini a much-needed boost, especially as they enter the Big Ten Tournament on a three-game win streak. Johnson’s stats prior to his injury were solid, averaging 7.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game.
Illinois is entering the Big Ten Tournament as the seventh seed, but with a fully healthy roster and a strong finish to the regular season, the Illini have the potential to make a deep run.