Virginia Loses Jontel Evans For Six Weeks With Stress Fracture

After a 22-win season a year ago, things at Virginia continue to rise thanks in large part to head coach Tony Bennett.

With another year of increased expectations on the horizon, the Cavaliers are looking to continue improving while jostling for position within the upper half of the ACC.

News emerged on Wednesday however, that senior guard Jontel Evans will miss the next six weeks while recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot. Evans has already had surgery on the foot and will focus on his recovery and preparation to return.

Evans is set on being a breakout candidate for the Cavaliers this season after averaging over 30 minutes per game in 2011-12. That larger role will take a delay to begin the year, but considering his recovery time, Evans should be able to return around mid-to-late November.

Evans has seen an increase in playing time and many other statistical categories throughout his previous three years at Virginia. As a junior, the 5-foot-11 guard, averaged 7.3 points and 3.9 assists per game.

“Jontel, obviously, he’s got a strong mind, and he’s a quick healer, so hopefully he’ll be back soon,” head coach Tony Bennett said in a release. “It was something that needed to be done, and everything went well. It’s unfortunate. You don’t want to have to miss your preseason.”

Fellow back court mate Joe Harris could see some time at the point, while Bennett may also look to incoming freshmen Teven Jones and Taylor Barnette.

Virginia opens up the season on Nov. 9 against George Mason.

 

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