Tiger Hoops

Tigers Lose Angel Garcia For Season

University of Memphis sophomore Angel Garcia suffered an ACL tear in his right knee and is expected to miss the entire 2009-10 season, Tiger head coach Josh Pastner announced Friday. Garcia’s injury occurred during a non-contact drill in Thursday’s individual workouts at the Larry O. Finch Center.

“After sitting out last year, this is an unfortunate ‘bump-in-the-road’ for Angel,” said Pastner. “However, I believe Angel will overcome this adversity and return a better player. Due to his character and principles, there is no doubt he will remain positive in a tough situation.

 “I know the fans were looking forward to seeing Angel on the court this year, and we were as well. But, we’ll rally around Angel, and our players and coaching staff will be there for him throughout his rehab. I’d also encourage Tiger Nation to send prayers and thoughts Angel’s way as he works hard to return to the court in 2010-11.”

Garcia, a Toa Baja, Puerto Rico, native, will undergo surgery within the next two weeks, and then faces six-to-eight months of rehabilitation.

The 6-foot-11 forward went through individual workouts and started preseason practice with the Tigers in the fall of 2008 while the NCAA Clearinghouse decided on the status of his eligibility. Garcia, though, suffered a left MCL injury on the second day of preseason drills and was unable to practice for the next three months while going through rehab. In January, Garcia was given the go-ahead to practice by the NCAA Clearinghouse, but was not allowed to play.

With Garcia’s injury, the Tigers open the 2009-10 campaign with eight scholarship players to suit up for games. Memphis’ first exhibition contest is set for Nov. 3 versus LeMoyne-Owen College. The Tigers’ regular season opener is Nov. 13 against Jackson State at FedExForum.