Coach Billy Donovan may have to once again test out a new starting lineup.
Forward Erik Murphy is dealing with a hip pointer and has not practiced since facing Marquette on Thursday, Donovan said on Monday. Murphy’s status for Wednesday’s game against Florida State remains unclear.
“I don’t know what is going to happen to the starting lineup right now,” Donovan said. “I would say Erik, based on what he is able to do now … may have something to do with the starting lineups.”
Murphy missed practice on Nov. 12 because of a migraine. Still, he started against Wisconsin two days later and posted 24 points and eight rebounds in UF’s 74-56 win.
Murphy’s injury gives Patric Young a chance to move back into the starting lineup after coming off the bench in Florida’s 82-49 win against Marquette on Thursday.
Young was held out of the lineup for the first time since Feb. 2 after displaying a poor attitude during Wednesday’s practice.
Scottie Wilbekin made his first start of the year on Thursday. Young recorded 10 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks off the bench.
Donovan said the Young is taking his punishment in stride and showing improvements in practice.
“Patric has responded really well, and I am happy with the way he’s responded not only in the game, (but) he’s responded really well in practice,” Donovan said. “That’s what he needs to do. He practiced very well yesterday and affected our team in a really positive way.”
If Murphy misses Wednesday’s game, the Gators will have to play a man down for the third time. Florida played its first three games without Wilbekin because of a suspension. Casey Prather missed the season’s first four games due to multiple concussions suffered during preseason practices.
After enduring multiple lineup changes, Florida believes it can handle another one.
“What has been great about our team so far this year is we’ve played with guys out,” Mike Rosario said. “I feel like everyone is prepared. We were without a couple guys during the season already, so I feel like we know already how to do it.”
Contact Katie Agostin at kagostin@alligator.org.
Forward Erik Murphy (33) shoots during Florida’s 58-40 win against Savannah State on Nov. 20 in the O’Connell Center.
