Chiozza sidelined by strep throat
GAINESVILLE — Two days after his game-winning play at Missouri, UF point guard
is out of the Gators’ lineup with strep throat.
A UF spokesperson said Chiozza would miss practice Monday and today, making him questionable for Wednesday night’s visit from Mississippi State.
Chiozza awoke Monday feeling sick and later tested positive for the illness, leaving the Gators’ without their team leader and the catalyst of their fivegame winning streak.
Chiozza has averaged 15.4 points, 3.8 rebounds and 5.8 assists, while committing just turnovers, to help UF (11-4, 3-0 SEC) get its season back on track.
Chiozza capped the torrid stretch with the play of the Gators’ season. Knotted 75-75 at Missouri and defending the Tigers during the final seconds, Chiozza stole a pass and broke away for a layup with less than a second remaining in the game.
“Right when he made the steal, I remember looking up at the clock and immediately and thinking, ‘Yeah, he’s got time,’ ” coach recalled Monday. “And then I thought, ‘Boy, I love Chris Chiozza.’
“I’m glad team.”
UF senior guard said he was as stunned as the Missouri Tigers and their fans.
“I think there’s not many guys in the country who can make that play,” Koulechov marveled. “Middle of the play, I was like, ‘We’re either going to be really sad or going into overtime.’ Didn’t really expect a game-winning steal like that. He made a huge play.
“We know he’s capable of making those plays … That’s what he does.” he’s on my shooting
If Chiozza is unavailable Wednesday against the surprising Bulldogs (13-2, 1-1), junior and freshman
would handle the point guard duties.
has filled an important position on his Florida State staff, hiring as defensive coordinator.
The university announced Barnett’s appointment Sunday.
He joins the Seminoles after 11 seasons at his alma mater, Michigan State.
Barnett coached defensive backs throughout his tenure and was the co-defensive coordinator the past three seasons.
This past season the Spartans led the Big Ten and were second in the Football Bowl Subdivision in rushing defense, allowing 95.3 yards per game.
Michigan State was also seventh in the nation in total defense, allowing 297.6 yards per game and 19th in scoring defense (20.0 points).
Barnett had a seven-year NFL career as a defensive back with the Browns, Patriots and Vikings.
As his former team prepared to take the field Monday night in the College Football Playoff National Championship, Miami Hurricanes coach
made it clear both on social media and in a morning radio interview that he’s excited to see what Georgia has accomplished since his time in Athens ended two years ago.
“It is fun to see those guys have success. They’re an awesome bunch of guys,” Richt said during a Monday appearance on WQAM-560.
“I’m happy for those guys. I’m happy for the Georgia coaches. I’ve got nothing against those guys. They’re great guys, they’re doing a good job and then the Georgia people …
“We were a part of the fabric of that team for 15 seasons and I’m happy for them to be able to experience what they’re going to get to experience tonight. I wish them well.”