Florida Gators center Micah Handlogten suffered a harrowing injury during the SEC tournament championship game against Auburn on Sunday afternoon in Nashville, leaving fans and teammates stunned.
Just moments into the highly anticipated matchup, Handlogten went down in agony after an awkward landing on his left foot.
The distressing incident occurred under the watchful eyes of spectators and cameras, capturing the audible snap of a bone and the distressing sight of blood on the center"s lower left leg.
Florida’s Micah Handlogten Stretchered Off Court After Gruesome Injury in SEC Tournament https://t.co/NpnROWtnBK
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) March 17, 2024
Surrounded by concerned teammates and trainers, the sophomore center, visibly anguished, was immobilized and stretchered off the court, leaving a somber atmosphere in the arena.
Trainers swiftly applied an air cast to Handlogten"s injured leg as a gesture of precaution.
Following the game, Florida coach Todd Golden addressed reporters, confirming the severity of Handlogten"s injury.
“Micah had fractured his lower left leg," Golden revealed. “You just hate to see it for him because he does everything the right way and works hard… Playing a big-time game like this, to go out that way, I just feel for him, Golden added."
In a show of resilience and gratitude, Handlogten took to social media shortly after the game, thanking Gators fans for their unwavering support and well-wishes during this challenging time.
Gator Nation, Thank you for all of the love and prayers! It has helped more than anyone could imagine. Keep supporting the boys so we can make a deep run in the NCAAT! I love you all!
🧡💙🐊— Micah Handlogten (@MHandlogten) March 17, 2024
Before the unfortunate injury, the 7-foot-1 center had been a crucial presence for the Florida Gators throughout the season, averaging 5.5 points and 7.1 rebounds in 32 games.
Despite only playing two minutes against Auburn, Handlogten"s absence was deeply felt by his team.
Auburn emerged victorious over Florida with a score of 86–67, securing an automatic berth into the upcoming NCAA tournament.
