After a devastating injury in her last high school game, Olivia Bennett, considered one of the brightest prospects in women's basketball, sees her college career postponed by a full season. Determined to overcome this setback, Bennet finally joins t...
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LCA Injury Delays Start of High School Basketball Prospect's College Career
By: ESPN Staff Writer, John Parker
Date: March 15, 2020
Manhattan, New York - Devastating news has struck the world of high school and college women's basketball as Olivia Bennett (18), one of the sport's brightest prospects, suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during her final game for Dalton High School. Forcing her to postpone the start of her college career for an entire season.
Bennett, who primarily plays as a Shooting Guard but also possesses skills to fill the role of Point Guard when needed, averaged 18 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals, and 6 assists in her senior year playing for Dalton. Last season, the 6'0" feet tall young talent played a crucial role in helping the team clinch the New England Class A Championship, as well as competitions organized by the Interscholastic Athletic Association (IAA) and the New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS), among other local and regional leagues.
Olivia, who had signed her National Letter of Intent to play for Providence College back in November 2019, was poised to make her debut at the next level of the game and leave her mark on the sports scene. Regarded as one of the most talented young players of her generation, Olivia is destined to join the ranks of other emerging stars like Caitlin Clark (committed to Iowa) and Paige Bueckers (committed to UConn).
The injury occurred during a tense and decisive offensive play. Olivia, with the ball in her hands, was advancing down the court with speed and agility, dribbling past her defender with finesse. The crucial moment unfolded as Olivia decided to make a quick change of direction, a characteristic move of her refined technique. With a sudden movement, she attempted to evade her opponent's defensive pressure by executing a quick fake to the opposite side.
However, Olivia's left foot, under great tension due to the abrupt change of direction, slightly slipped on the floor, causing a momentary imbalance. The angle of the shooting guard's knee seemed to suddenly veer off, taking an unwanted sharp turn. An instant expression of agony crossed her face as she realized what was happening. In a moment, the entire arena seemed to freeze as Olivia fell to the ground, clutching desperately at her left knee with a look of piercing pain and evident anguish on her face. The moment was captured by the game cameras, immortalizing the scene as a painful portrait of a crucial moment that would change the course of her basketball journey.
The gravity of the situation quickly became apparent as the medical team rushed to Olivia's aid. She was immediately taken for evaluation, where tests confirmed the feared diagnosis: a complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee.
The impact of the news was felt not only by the Providence College basketball team, which was already counting on her presence in Rhode Island for the upcoming season, but also by the entire sports community. Olivia, an exceptional player known for her ball-handling skills, impressive court vision, and sharp three-point shooting, was seen as a key piece for the team's future success.
"I am devastated for Olivia and the entire team," said Providence Friars coach, Jim Crowley, in an official statement. "Olivia is an incredible athlete and an even better person. We are committed to supporting her in her recovery and look forward to seeing her shine when she is healthy and ready to play."
Olivia's injury not only delays the start of her college basketball career but also represents an emotional blow for the young athlete, who has dedicated years of hard work and dedication to the sport she loves.
Dalton School coach, Evan Thompson, also expressed his support for Olivia. "Livie is an exceptional player and an example of dedication and talent. I have never witnessed such professionalism in such a young girl. We are here for her every step of the way and can't wait to see her back on the courts."
However, Olivia seems determined to overcome this obstacle and come back stronger than ever. In an emotional statement, she expressed her gratitude for the support of her family, friends, and fans, and her commitment to facing the challenges ahead.
"This injury is just a bump in the road," said the young athlete in a social media post. "I am focused on my recovery and know that I will come back stronger than ever. I can't wait to get back on the court and represent the Providence Friars with pride. This challenge will only increase my determination and my gratitude for every moment I can play and represent my team."
As Olivia starts her rehabilitation journey after surgery, the sports community comes together in solidarity, cheering for her swift recovery and triumphant return to college basketball.
