Oct. 8, 2001

Illinois senior forward Lucas Johnson suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee on Oct. 4 and will miss at least a portion of the season. The injury came during a pick-up game when Johnson planted his leg while cutting to the lane for a shot. Doctors have indicated the normal rehabilitation is 4-6 months, although Johnson has intentions of yet returning this season.

"We're all disappointed for Lucas," Head Coach Bill Self said. "Luckily, there was no damage other than the torn ACL which should aid in his recovery. For a lot of people, this could be season-ending, but Lucas isn't like most people. His total focus will be to return this season and help this team down the stretch run. He came in with this senior class and he wants to go out with them."

Johnson averaged 5.0 points and 3.3 rebounds per game as a junior when the Fighting Illini earned a share of the Big Ten championship and posted a 27-8 record. He has 22 career starts and was expected to compete for a starting position this season in place of the graduated Sergio McClain.