Sophomore Taren O'Brien and junior Steph Reichle both are recovering as expected from arthroscopic knee surgery performed Wednesday by Dr. Robert Seidl. Both Illinois State starting guards played despite knee problems at the end of the 2001-02 season, but should be ready for action for the 2002-03 season.
According to Redbird Athletics Trainer Yvonne Logan, O'Brien's procedure repaired the outside lining of her knee and Reichle had a piece of damaged meniscus taken from her knee. Both had arthroscopic procedures in 2001. Reichle had major knee surgery in 2000.
O'Brien led the Redbirds in scoring, assists and free throw percentage in 2001-02. Reichle led the squad in steals and was No. 2 in rebounds and assists.
Redbird coach Jenny Yopp believes both will be ready for next season.
"Taren and Steph both play extremely hard and work hard to prepare themselves every day," said Yopp. "That can create the kinds of knee problems they have, but that same great attitude and work ethic will guide their recovery. Both are committed to staying (on campus) through the summer to work hard and get stronger."
O'Brien and Reichle will be part of 11 returning letterwinners and four returning starters for the Redbirds in 2002-03.
