Illinois freshman Morez Johnson, Jr. out indefinitely with wrist injury

Illinois freshman forward Morez Johnson Jr. is out indefinitely after suffering a wrist injury during the team’s loss to Michigan State on Saturday. Head coach Brad Underwood confirmed the news on Monday, stating that Johnson broke his wrist after falling from a blocked shot.

By Elizabeth Hess February 17, 2025 4:41 pm

Chambana Todayillinois.eduThe Illini will now need to make adjustments without Johnson in the lineup.

CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Illinois freshman forward Morez Johnson Jr. is out indefinitely after suffering a wrist injury during the team’s loss to Michigan State on Saturday. Head coach Brad Underwood confirmed the news on Monday, stating that Johnson broke his wrist after falling from a blocked shot.

The 6-foot-9 Chicago native had been making an impact on the court this season, earning a spot in the starting lineup. Johnson Jr. had moved into the first five after fellow big man Tomislav Ivisic was sidelined with mono but maintained his starting position when Ivisic returned to the lineup.

In 26 games played this season, with eight starts, Johnson Jr. has averaged 7.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game. The Illini will now need to make adjustments without Johnson in the lineup, but with his injury status still indefinite, it remains to be seen how long he will be sidelined.