More on Aboya, Southern Illinois

Cigarettes may have been banned in most of New York's public establishments, but that didn't stop UCLA from smoking the Salukis in Madison Square Garden.

David Wharton reports that the 77-60 victory over Southern Illinois was redemption for Thursday's big upset against Michigan.

Alfred Aboya was the story of the game. After having a career night, he left early with an injury. All tests have been negative so far. Aboya was in the hospital during postgame interviews, but released the following statements through the school:

On his career night of 22 points against Southern Illinois:

"I think my teammates did a great job of finding me tonight. Southern Illinois is an aggressive team, especially on defense. They are very help conscious and when my teammates drove to the basket, they (Southern Illinois) did a good job of helping and my teammates did a good job of getting the ball to me when my man came to help. That was why I got easy baskets. I just concentrated on my foul shots tonight when I got fouled."

On the injury to his wrist:

"I hurt it last night (against Michigan) after a charge and then again tonight when I drew that last charge (came in the second half at the 3:38 mark by Nick Evans). I just came back from the hospital and the CT scan and X-rays were both negative. On Monday, I'll go get an MRI on my wrist (left), just to double check. But I think I'll be fine. We have tomorrow and Sunday off, so for me, I think that is enough time to heal. My body heals up pretty quickly."

Aboya absorbed quite a pounding this weekend in New York. Against Michigan, he drew four charges and was on the receiving end of a fifth against Southern Illinois. He also drew contact on two other plays that weren't whistled. 

—Adam Rose

Photo: Frank Franklin II / Associated Press

Comments

[JosephineBruin]

ABOYA!!!!!!!!!
great game.
He's one of the seniors that's going to make this year so SPECIAL!