Drummond sidelined with stress fracture

Before the game tonight, Villanova announced disappointing news in that sophomore center Casiem Drummond has been diagnosed with a stress fracture in his right ankle. Originally diagnosed as ankle tendonitis, Drummond has been hampered and unable to suit up for the past few games.

A stress fracture is defined as a tiny bone crack developed from overuse. When muscles are fatigued they fail to absorb the shock of impacts. Consequently, the muscles transfer the stress to the ankle which creates a small fracture. With proper rest, and use of protective footwear, most players with similar injuries have been able to return and be effective in the same season.

There is no timetable for his return, although similar injuries by basketball players such as Samuel Dalembert and Josh Childress have sidelined the stars for several weeks, with Childress' injury coming in the final weeks of the season. Interior players Dante Cunningham and Antonio Pena must step up in Drummond's absence if he is expected to miss significant time if the Cats hope to contend in the Big East.

Drummond has had a solid sophomore season thus far, starting six of Villanova's first eight games while averaging 7.1 points and 7.9 rebounds. His strongest game arguably came against NC State when he grabbed 17 rebounds during the Old Spice Classic.