Head coach Billy Donovan has a bad back. He’s suffered back problems since his playing days at Providence College, where he suffered two fractures in his back.

Those back problems have grown steadily worse, and Donovan might require surgery to fix the problem.

“I’m concerned because I haven’t been able to walk,” Donovan said. “It takes me a while. The other day, I got out of bed and couldn’t stand up and had to crawl to the bathroom. So that’s kind of what I’m dealing with now. I’ve had back problems for a long time, so it’s not anything new.”

Gator fans are praying that Donovan’s back will allow him to coach the talented group of incoming Gator freshmen. If Donovan is unable to go, it could be a mighty long year in Gainesville.

Post from: EveryJoe

Gators’ Donovan may go under the knife

Calathes is a 6′6″ combo guard that averaged 27.8 points, 6.5 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game during his senior season at Lake Howell (Winter Park) High School. He has the ability to score from all over the court and is very skilled at patiently running the offense. Calathes is a proven winner as he and his teammates reached the Final Four in each of his four years at Lake Howell, including a state championship this past season.

The Gators have brought in freshman point guard Jai Lucas to run the offense, so Calathes will spend much of his playing time at shooting guard.

Calathes has all the skills to be a star in the SEC, and he is definitely a player to watch this season.

(Photo courtesy of www.gatorzone.com)

Post from: EveryJoe

Player spotlight: Nick Calathes