Seton Hall came into this season with high expectations. The buzz in large part came from having Preseason Big East Player of the Year and All-American Myles Powell. The Pirates’ season trajectory may have taken a big hit as Powell left Saturday’s game against Stony Brook with an ankle injury.
Myles Powell Out Indefinitely
Powell was fantastic a season ago, averaging 23.1 points per game while leading Seton Hall to the NCAA Tournament. He was expected to help the Pirates take the next step and contend for a Big East title. Powell scored 27 points in Seton Hall’s opening night win over Wagner.
Myles Powell drove to the lane early in the first half for a layup. As he came down, he appeared to land awkwardly on his left ankle and immediately started limping. He had not registered any points at the time and did not return to the game.
Postgame comments from head coach Kevin Willard painted a grim picture for the Pirates. He was quoted as saying that the injury is “not a one or two game thing.” Willard said he would be “extra safe” with Powell, “holding him out as long as he needs to avoid affecting his future.” This statement shows that Willard understands Powell likely has a playing career beyond his time at Seton Hall.
While Seton Hall ended up defeating Stony Brook 74-57, it took a long time for the Pirates to pull away. The Seawolves actually held a two-point halftime advantage and were within single digits until around five minutes left in the game.
Seton Hall’s schedule does not get easier, as the Pirates welcome Michigan State to South Orange, New Jersey next Thursday, November 14. That will be a tough task for the Pirates without Powell. The injury comes early enough in the season for Willard to make lineup adjustments. The question will be how long Seton Hall can survive without Powell before his absence becomes detrimental.
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