Waly Coulibaly-US Presswire
Georgetown Hoyas sophomore forward Tyler Adams will not play this season and his college career is in doubt, according to reports on the Casual Hoya blog.
Georgetown coach John Thompson III reportedly made the announcement at the annual open practice for members of the Hoya Hoop Club, the basketball team’s boosters.
Last year, Georgetown sidelined Adams indefinitely after heart problems emerged. A 6-foot-9 native of Brandon, Miss, Adams averaged 2.5 points and 2.3 rebounds in four games before he was sidelined.
He then underwent a series of tests at Georgetown University Hospital and never returned.
Although Adams status remained uncertain going into this season, his name was on the roster and no definitive word came on his availability until today.
It’s been a disappointing college career for Adams who initially committed to the Duke Blue Devils before signing with the Hoyas.
Considered among the top ten high school centers in the country, by Rivals in 2010, Adams struggled early with nagging injuries.
Adams’ size allowed him to play forward or center, where the Hoyas are noticeably thin. Coach Thompson has yet to name a starter.
Among those competing for the job are a pair of freshmen; Bradley Hayes, a seven-footer from Jacksonville, Fl and Brandon Bolden, 6-10, from Sumter, S.C. But Hayes has had his own health issues.
Adams played just one full season in high school because of accelerated growth ailments. Only 6-2 his freshman season in high school, Hayes grew nine inches in three years.
If play at center remains murky, the Hoyas will lean heavily on forward Otto Porter, who averaged 9.7 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.
Thompson may also rely on a rotation of versatile forwards Greg Whittington, 6-8, 212, Mikael Hopkins, 6-9, 223, Nate Lubick, 6-8, 235 and Brandon Bolden, 6-8, 190 to compliment Porter who is expected to have a break-out year.
Merlisa covers Georgetown and Big East basketball. Follow her on Twitter: @merlisa
