UH awaits results of Spearman’s MRI

The severity of Hawaii basketball guard Brandon Spearman’s ankle sprain won’t be known until today.

Spearman turned his right ankle mere seconds after the jump ball was released at the start of UH’s exhibition against Brigham Young-Hawaii on Thursday night. It was diagnosed as a high ankle sprain during the game.

A Seasiders player collided with Spearman’s legs, and the senior captain hobbled off the Stan Sheriff Center floor after testing his weight on the foot. He returned to the Rainbow Warriors bench on crutches in the second half of the 101-85 UH victory.

X-rays came back negative for damage Friday, but Spearman was to have an MRI late Friday to learn the extent of ligament damage.

UH coach Gib Arnold decided to give his team a three-day break from practice over the weekend in preparation for the season-opening Outrigger Hotels and Resorts Rainbow Classic, which starts Friday against Tennessee State.

"We watched film (of the exhibition) and lifted weights today," Arnold said. "I think it’s important they get rest. Isaac (Fotu) is sick and a couple guys are banged up. We feel going into three games in a week we need to get some rest and get ’em back."

Besides Spearman’s injury, backup point guard Quincy Smith is dealing with tightness in his lower back. Smith left the Halloween game near the end of the first half, but returned for the second and played 10 total minutes.

"Those guys are going to be going through some pretty intensive rehab over the weekend," Arnold said.

BYUH also lost a player, Bracken Funk, to a knee injury late in the game.

UH freshman wing Aaron Valdes came into the game for Spearman. He turned in eight points and a game-high 11 rebounds.

Individual tickets on sale

Individual game tickets for UH men’s and women’s basketball games are now on sale.

Lower-level seats are $26 for men’s games, while upper-level seats go for $18 for adults, $16 for senior citizens and $5 for children. Women’s tickets are $7 for adult general admission, $5 for senior citizens and $3 for children.

Tickets can be purchased at hawaiiathletics.com, at the Stan Sheriff Center box office or by calling 944-2697.