Injured players wrestle with tough choice

When college stars like Cole Anthony are injured, they are faced with the question of whether they should they return or just sit out the season to protect their looming draft prospects.

Like Anthony, who has said he plans to return to action with North Carolina, most want to return to the basketball court, which has proven to be a good option — provided they’re healthy. Look no further than last year, when Zion Williamson returned to Duke’s lineup after a freak injury and went on to become the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft.

The more prospects can showcase how they handle game situations certainly helps in their NBA draft evaluations.

“Seeing them play in a game is always going to be better than an individual workout or 3-on-3,” said Ryan Blake, an NBA consultant with a long scouting background said of player.

Williamson, fellow No. 1 overall draft pick Kyrie Irving and first-round pick Michael Porter Jr. are some of the highest-profile players who have faced that decision.

Each returned to finish a lone season for his college team.

Minnesota

The suspension of women’s leading scorer Destiny Pitts will stay in effect for at least a second game, coach Lindsay Whalen said Wednesday. Pitts remains with the program, but the junior guard has not practiced since the punishment for unspecified “conduct unbecoming a member of the team” was enacted.

Auburn

The previously undefeated Tigers, ranked No. 4, were upset Wednesday by Alabama, 83-64. The only Division I unbeaten team in the country is No. 7 San Diego State (18-0).