Crap.
We got word today that CJ Williams is doubtful for NC State’s key match-up with Miami on Sunday after injuring his shoulder last night against Boston College. As of today, Miami sits just a few spots AHEAD of NC State in the current RPI. Road wins typically take on greater magnitude in the RPI…so Sunday’s game at winnable Miami takes on a particularly important opportunity for the Wolfpack’s NCAA Tournament hopes.
NC State head coach Mark Gottfried said senior guard C.J. Williams was doubtful for Sunday’s game. Williams sustained a shoulder injury in the second half of Thursday’s 76-62 win over Boston College.
“The only update that I have is that we’re not doing a MRI,” said Gottfried. “Our doctors feel like they want to take a look at him today.
“I’m hopeful that he will be able to play but I would say right now it is doubtful. Doubtful but hopeful, and we will see here, but there is such a quick turnaround.”
Williams was further examined by the Wolfpack’s medical staff after last night’s game was over and right now the plan is to give him as much treatment and rest as possible.
“He did have some range of motion last night with our doctors,” Gottfried stated. “They didn’t feel like it was necessary just yet because the treatment would be the same for right now. Let’s watch for 24 hours and see how he responds.
“We will not do anything with him today, hold him out completely in practice. I don’t even want him to shoot a foul shot. Let his shoulder rest, and we will see tomorrow how he feels.”
A senior guard from Fayetteville, North Carolina, Williams has started every game for the Wolfpack this season. He is averaging a career-high in scoring (12.1), and is also NC State’s top perimeter defender.
With the Pack facing Miami and talented guards Malcolm Grant (13.4 ppg) and Durand Scott (12.9 ppg) on Sunday, Gottfried said he is certainly concerned about the possibility of not having Williams available.
“Obviously ,” said Gottfried. “We’re a team that has played a rotation of seven guys a lot so we’re a team that can’t afford injuries. But, if he can’t play then we have to respond and find another avenue.
“If C.J. Williams is out, collectively between Lorenzo, Scott, Alex, and whether it’s Tyler Harris, we have to do a nice job collectively [on defense]. Injuries are a part of athletics. If we have to play without him you move on. We don’t make excuses about it. Somebody else has to step forward.”
