Ty Rodgers' season-ending injury a major blow to Illini men's basketball team

Breaking: Illini junior wing Ty Rodgers to take redshirt season

Rodgers, who started 29 games for the Illini last season, suffered a torn ACL during a pickup game in August. The 6-foot-6 wing was expected to be a key contributor for the Illini this season, but his injury will now force him to sit out the entire year.

What does this mean for the Illini?

Rodgers' injury is a major blow to the Illini, who were already thin on the wing. With Rodgers out, the Illini will now be without one of their most experienced and versatile players.

In Rodgers' absence, the Illini will likely turn to sophomore Luke Goode and freshman RJ Melendez to fill his spot in the starting lineup. Goode is a 6-foot-6 wing who averaged 4.4 points per game last season, while Melendez is a 6-foot-7 forward who was one of the top recruits in the country last year.

The Illini will also need to find a way to replace Rodgers' production on the defensive end. Rodgers was one of the Illini's best defenders last season, and his absence will leave a big hole in the team's defense.

How did Rodgers get injured?

Rodgers suffered the injury during a pickup game in August. He was reportedly playing defense when he landed awkwardly and tore his ACL.

ACL injuries are common in basketball, and they can be very serious. The ACL is a ligament that connects the thigh bone to the shin bone. When the ACL is torn, it can cause instability in the knee and make it difficult to walk or run.

Rodgers will likely need surgery to repair his ACL. The surgery is usually successful, but it can take several months to recover from.

What is the prognosis for Rodgers?

The prognosis for Rodgers is good. He is expected to make a full recovery from his injury and return to the court next season.

However, it is possible that Rodgers may not be the same player he was before the injury. ACL injuries can sometimes lead to a loss of mobility and strength in the knee.

Rodgers will need to work hard to rehab his knee and regain his strength and mobility. If he is able to do that, he should be able to return to the court as a productive player.