After a distressing incident at the Southeastern Conference Tournament, guard Last-Tear Poa of LSU has been diagnosed with a concussion, according to official statements from the university. The injury occurred during the team’s triumphant game against Mississippi, which ended with an LSU victory of 75-67 on Saturday night in Greenville, S.C.
Coach Kim Mulkey from LSU shared that Poa was able to move her extremities as she was transported out of the arena on a stretcher. Poa was then promptly taken to St. Francis Hospital for a thorough evaluation.
Mulkey expressed relief post-game, revealing that the hospital’s scans of Poa showed no significant injuries: “So that’s wonderful news,” she commented.
The incident occurred during the fourth quarter. Poa stood up with some assistance and attempted to move to the bench before being laid down cautiously by the medical team, which then called for a stretcher.
As Poa received medical attention, her teammates gathered for a prayer as the audience vocalized their support with chants of her name.
Mulkey recounted the severity of the event, though she herself had not witnessed the fall directly, “The kid took quite a lick on the back of her head,” she said. When addressing Poa’s condition at the time, Mulkey added, “She could squeeze your hand, lightly… She’d tell you she could feel her legs, but she really couldn’t articulate good enough for you not to be afraid.”
Junior player Poa, hailing from Australia, has been an important part of the LSU team, having started in 10 games during the current season and playing a notable 17 minutes during the game against the Rebels, contributing five points for LSU.
Mulkey has been in touch with Poa’s family in Australia to apprise them of her situation, and intended to visit Poa in the hospital to provide support.
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FAQs About Last-Tear Poa’s Injury and Condition
Q: What is the current status of Last-Tear Poa’s health?
A: Last-Tear Poa has been diagnosed with a concussion but is expected to be released from the hospital after a positive scan that showed no additional injuries.
Q: How did Poa sustain the injury?
A: Poa hit her head on the floor during the fourth quarter of the SEC Tournament game against Mississippi.
Q: Was Poa responsive after the incident?
A: While Poa was somewhat unresponsive initially, she was able to slightly squeeze a hand and feel her legs, though she could not communicate clearly due to the concussion.
Q: Has the LSU coach been in touch with Poa’s family?
A: Yes, Coach Kim Mulkey has communicated with Poa’s family in Australia regarding the incident and intends to be with Poa at the hospital.
Conclusion
The incident involving Last-Tear Poa was a frightful moment for her teammates, coaching staff, LSU fans, and the broader basketball community. Nevertheless, the positive news about her clear scans and expected release from the hospital brings a sigh of relief to everyone. Poa’s injury serves as a reminder of the intensity of sports and the importance of quick and careful medical response to on-court accidents. The LSU community and fans across the globe send their best wishes for her speedy recovery.