Illini lose injured PG Abrams for season

Illinois will be without its starting point guard from last season after senior Tracy Abrams suffered a torn ACL in his right knee during a preseason workout.

Abrams was one of three returning starters from the 2013-14 team who were expected to lead the Fighting Illini this season. He averaged 10.7 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists last season.

“Tracy worked hard in the offseason to put himself in great position heading into his senior year, so he’s obviously disappointed, and we are for him as well,” Illinois coach John Groce said. “But Tracy personifies toughness; he has the heart of a champion, and I know that he will only come back stronger from this experience when he returns to the court next year.

“In the meantime, he will continue to play a vital role for our program with his leadership.”

The 6-foot-2 Abrams will take a medical redshirt and be back for the 2015-16 season. He is awaiting surgery on the knee.

Expected to take over at point guard this year is Oregon State transfer Ahmad Starks, who averaged 10.4 points and 2.2 assists per game in three seasons with the Beavers.

The Fighting Illini also have redshirt junior Aaron Cosby, a transfer from Seton Hall, and sophomore Jaylon Tate who can play the point.