Injury Strikes Florida Gators’ Alex Condon in Critical Game Against Mississippi State

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The Florida Gators men’s basketball team faced another setback in their season after center Alex Condon sustained an injury in the opening minute of their game against Mississippi State on Tuesday night. Condon, the team’s leading rebounder, went down while attempting to secure a rebound, landing awkwardly on his right ankle, which required immediate attention from trainers.

Team officials confirmed that Condon would not return for the remainder of the game. With Condon averaging 11.0 points, 8.1 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game, his absence is anticipated to significantly impact the Gators, already short-handed in the frontcourt.

The injury occurred just 30 seconds into the first half, raising concerns about how Florida would manage foul trouble without their key player. Condon’s production would be sorely missed as he was instrumental in the team’s recent success, including a 90-81 victory over No. 1 Auburn just days prior.

Florida head coach Todd Golden commented on the team’s efforts in Condon’s absence. “I thought our guys did a great job of just kind of executing our game plan. Obviously, we made it hard for their star players, and Condo was incredibly physical,” he said. “His toughness has been a huge asset this season.”

Condon, a sophomore from Perth, Australia, had recently been honored as the Southeastern Conference’s Player of the Week, underscoring his contributions to the team. In the game against Auburn, he had posted a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds.

This injury adds to Florida’s woes, as the Gators were already missing another key player, Alijah Martin, who sat out due to a hip pointer injury sustained earlier in conference play. Martin is Florida’s second-leading scorer, averaging 15.3 points per game.

With Martin also unavailable, Florida’s bench will need to step up. Forward CJ Felder and guard Kyle Lofton are expected to absorb Condon’s minutes and provide support as the Gators strive to maintain their momentum against the Bulldogs.

As the season progresses, the Gators hope to overcome their injury challenges and remain competitive in the SEC. The coaching staff continues to emphasize resilience and adaptability among the players, despite the pressing circumstances.