'Hoos Play Waiting Game with Scott
Dec. 16, 2009
By Jeff White (jwhite@virginia.edu)
CHARLOTTESVILLE — With the next game fast approaching, UVa forward Mike Scott’s status remains uncertain.
Scott, first-year coach Tony Bennett’s top rebounder and second-leading scorer, sprained his ankle Dec. 5 and missed Virginia’s 68-67 loss at Auburn two nights later.
A 6-8 junior from Chesapeake, Scott hasn’t practiced with the team since he got hurt.
The Cavaliers, who were off Tuesday, reconvened Wednesday afternoon, and Scott did cardiovascular work on the side while his teammates practiced on the main court at John Paul Jones Arena.
Final exams are under way at UVa, and Bennett’s team hasn’t played since the Auburn game. Virginia (4-4) returns to action Saturday night against UNC Wilmington at JPJ.
Scott averages 13.1 points and 9.3 rebounds, and there’s not another player on the roster who comes close to duplicating his skill set.
Against Auburn, the Cavaliers’ other post players — Will Sherrill, Jerome Meyinsse and Assane Sene — combined for 7 points and 10 rebounds.
Jamil Tucker, a 6-9 senior, may be another option at some point. But Bennett said Wednesday morning that Tucker, who took a personal leave of absence before the season, hasn’t been cleared to play.
Tucker has been practicing with the Wahoos since late last month.