By JOSH NEWMAN
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — As mystery surrounds the status of Vanderbilt commit Simi Shittu‘s injured knee, Alex Popp believes he could return sooner than later.
Still, even the Vermont Academy head coach isn’t sure at this point after Shittu injured his knee on Dec. 28 at Slam Dunk to the Beach. Shittu underwent a first MRI for the injury on Jan. 5
“I’m kind of left in the dark,” Popp told ZAGSBLOG after his Vermont Academy team fell to IMG Academy, 81-78, at the HoopHall Classic. “I’m told he could be back in 2-4 weeks, but we’ll see. I’m not sure. I’m genuinely not sure. I’m hoping to get him back.”
Shittu, who has missed the last five games in the middle of being nominated for the McDonald’s All-American Game, had the MRI performed in his native Ontario. A second opinion is in the works, according to Popp, but that is also an enigma at this point.
“You always kind of plan for the worst, but for his sake as an individual, we’re not in any type of rush to get him back,” Popp said. “Obviously, we want what’s best for his future.”
TYLER BERTRAM GOES OFF, TALKS SCHOOLS
With Shittu out on Sunday, Class of 2019 guard Tyler Bertram had a huge day for Vermont Academy, finishing with a game-high 31 points on 10-for-21 shooting and 8-for-18 from 3-point range. His last-second 3-point attempt for the tie appeared on line, but clanged off the side of the rim.
The Cooperstown, N.Y. native listed St. Joseph’s and Siena as showing the most love right now, but hopes to up that interest. An effort like Sunday can only help.
“My goal is definitely to play at the high-major level,” Bertram said. “Hopefully, I opened up a lot of eyes and got some more interest.”
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