Virginia senior forward Will Sherrill left Monday night's game against Minnesota early after Golden Gopher Colton Iverson landed on his right knee. This afternoon, head coach Tony Bennett told the media that Sherrill has a fractured fibula and would be missing some games. He was unable to give an estimate as to how long Sherill will be out, and more information will be known as Sherrill undergoes further tests and treatment this week.
Through seven games, Sherrill has averaged 6.3 points and 3.4 rebounds per game. Against Minnesota, he bookended a 12-1 run for the Cavaliers with a pair of threes. The 6'9, 217 lbs. senior provides much of the size that Virginia needs on the inside.
With his absence, Bennett will turn to a freshman to fill the gap.
There is no change, however, to the redshirt status of James Johnson, the four-star power forward known for his post play and rebounding ability, as well as a perimeter shot. Instead, Bennett will turn to freshmen Akil Mitchell and Will Regan.Appearing in five games, Mitchell averages 1.4 points and 2.8 rebounds over 8.4 minutes per game. Similarly, Regan has 1.3 points and 1.0 rebounds over 5.5 minutes per game in the six games in which he's appeared.
As the results are still early, Bennett has not explored the possibility of a medical redshirt for Sherrill. He also says that he has not completely ruled out Johnson for this year, depending on the extent of Sherrill's injury and how well Mitchell and Regan are able to step up in his stead.