Sophomore
Sharon Blade will likely miss two weeks of play for the Illinois State womens basketball team because of stress-related problems in her left foot.
The 6-foot-2 center from Peoria has had recurring problems with her feet, including a stress fracture which caused her to miss the entire 1999-2000 season. Illinois States leading scorer in 2000-01, Blade had emerged from a shooting slump to score in double figures in her last two games.
Initial examination revealed no stress fracture, but further tests are scheduled for Wednesday. The Redbirds are scheduled to play Thursday at Evansville and Sunday at Southern Illinois.
Redbird coach
Jenny Yopp said her team would miss Blades contributions, but understands the need for her to be sidelined and hopes rest will be beneficial.
This is a challenge that will Sharon will have for as long as she plays basketball, said Yopp. Its a big loss for us, particularly since Sharon had been playing well recently. Other players will have to step up.
The Redbirds are 3-11 overall, 1-4 in the Missouri Valley coming off a 64-57 overtime win against conference leader and previously undefeated Creighton.
