The Florida Gators men’s basketball team has been on a tear lately, racking up wins and rising in the rankings. But one lingering question mark hovers over their season – the status of junior center Micah Handlogten. The 7-foot-1 big man has been out since last March after breaking his leg in the SEC tournament, but he’s now been medically cleared to return to action. The only question is, will he?
Handlogten’s Recovery and Return Timeline
Handlogten suffered the gruesome injury against Auburn, immediately falling to the court in pain. He had surgery shortly after, getting a rod and screws inserted into his leg. Despite the major setback, he remained engaged with the team, even traveling to the NCAA tournament to cheer on his teammates from behind the bench.
His rehab progressed well and he began participating in team activities again in December. Recently, after extensive evaluation, he got the green light from doctors that he was healed up and able to play. Handlogten initially planned to make his season debut this past Saturday against rival Georgia. But the night before the game, he had second thoughts.
A Fluid Situation
On Handlogten’s status, head coach Todd Golden said “I think it’s going to be fluid…he could wake up tomorrow and call me and say, ‘Hey, man, that looked fun. Maybe let’s get out there next Saturday.'” Golden emphasized they are letting Handlogten set his own timeline and are supportive whether he returns this season or next.
“It’s a very emotional decision. I can understand why someone in his shoes might have second thoughts…The bottom line with a situation like that is you have to be all the way in if you’re going to come back.”
– Todd Golden, Florida head coach
Gators Excelling Even Without Their Big Man
Even without the 2nd-team All-SEC center, the Gators haven’t missed a beat. Guards like Will Richard and Walter Clayton are having excellent seasons. The emergence of forwards Alex Condon and Thomas Haugh have bolstered the frontcourt as well. Against Georgia, Condon poured in 14 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists while Haugh notched a double-double with 13 and 11.
How Handlogten Could Boost the Gators
Still, there’s no denying the impact Handlogten could have if he does decide to play. In his Florida debut last season after transferring from Marshall, the North Carolina native averaged 5.9 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game. His 108 offensive rebounds were 2nd most in school history.
- Provides an imposing defensive presence in the paint with shot-blocking ability
- Elite offensive rebounder who creates extra possessions and putback opportunities
- Allows other bigs like Condon and Haugh to stay fresh and avoid foul trouble
- Emotional leader whose return could galvanize team heading into postseason
Handlogten has already made his mark as the heart and soul of this Gators team. Freshman guard Denzel Aberdeen described Handlogten’s leadership: “He’s always engaged, bringing the energy…He’s like a big cheerleader for us.” His return to the court would be a huge emotional lift for a squad with championship aspirations.
The Road Ahead for Florida
At 13-7 overall and 6-2 in SEC play, the Gators are in the thick of the conference race. With a talented roster that could get even deeper if Handlogten returns, Florida has a chance to make noise in March. The Gators faithful certainly hope to see the big man back on the court, rattling rims and changing shots soon. But for now, the watching and waiting game continues.
One thing is for sure – whenever Handlogten does come back, it will be an emotional moment. The chance to chase a championship alongside his close friends and fellow seniors Walter Clayton Jr. and Will Richard has to be tempting. But after an injury as serious as his, you can understand the trepidation about rushing back. In the end, only Handlogten can decide if he’s truly ready – physically and mentally. Until then, the college basketball world remains on standby, eager to see the Gators at full strength.
