The Kansas Jayhawks began the 2013-2014 as near-locks for the Final Four, with the top recruit in the nation, Andrew Wiggins, coming in as well as a freak athlete at center named Joel Embiid. As the season has worn on, Embiid appeared to gain steam as the potential top pick in the NBA Draft; back issues now seem to be derailing that train.
Joel Embiid considering staying at Kansas?
According to a statement released by Kansas head coach Bill Self, Embiid is out indefinitely with back issues and could miss time in the NCAA Tournament. "Based on that, this weekend (in the Big 12 Championship) is out," Self said.
"Next weekend, we feel like is a longshot, but the doctors are hopeful that if Joel works hard in rehab and progresses that it is possible that he could play in the later rounds of the NCAA Tournament if our team is fortunate enough to advance."
Even though Wiggins is capable of huge performances, as evidenced by a 41-point outburst over the weekend vs. West Virginia, the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year's presence was missed. He is averaging 2.6 blocks per game and 8.1 rebounds.
Wiggins, Parker, Embiid not on level of Carmelo Anthony?
Throughout the season Embiid has garnered comparisons to NBA great Hakeem Olajuwon, and Self admitted losing him could be a lethal blow. "We're all very disappointed for Joel," Self said. "He's worked so hard and improved so much. He's been one of the most improved players in the country in such a short amount of time," Self said.
Back issues are alarming for any athlete, especially big men. Self seemed certain that Embiid's injuries are nothing that should linger long-term, however.
"Everyone is 100 percent confident that Joel will heal and be back to normal soon, but the most important thing is that he gets well," Self said. "We're certainly not going to put him out there unless the doctors, his family and Joel are ready for him to go. I know how bad he wants it, and that he will work his butt off to put him in a position where if our team is successful and fortunate enough to advance, he could return in later rounds."
If he is unable to return, he will be a longshot to be taken first overall with players like Wiggins, Jabari Parker, or even foreign prospect Dante Exum there for the picking.
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