USC Trojans HC Andy Enfield gives optimistic update on Vince Iwuchukwu

USC Basketball five-star Center and incoming true freshman, Vince Iwuchukwu, "suffered major heart failure and collapsed during an informal team practice" on July 1st. He had to be hospitalized as a result of his cardiac arrest, and there was no timetable for his return. It wasn't even clear if he'd ever be able to play for SC again.

Ben Bolch of the LA Times, however, did speak with USC Head Coach Andy Enfield who actually had some optimism on Iwuchukwu's chances to play and his recovery in general:

Iwuchukwu has clearly been spending lots of time around the team, as Enfield cited the type of teammate he's been at practice, while continuing to express optimism about where he's at with his health:

“He’s energetic with his teammates, he supports and encourages his teammates,” said Enfield when speaking with Bolch. “And it’s just awesome to see him every day in practice with that energy and so he’s doing extremely well right now.”

Clearly, USC Basketball C Vince Iwuchukwu is at least not behind schedule in his recovery.

Vince Iwuchukwu was a massive get for USC Basketball, ranking as the No. 5 center in the entire 2022 recruiting class (all recruiting ratings and rankings in article are as of 247Sports). He was a major part of the plans for this Trojan squad that just brought in the No. 7 recruiting class in the entire country (No. 1 in the Pac-12).

With SC losing their star big man Isaiah Mobley to the NBA Draft this past offseason, the Trojans need a new big this year to fill that void. While it's still not known if or when Iwuchukwu will be back, Enfield stayed optimistic with Bolch and that sounds telling:

“Vince has a long career ahead of him and his personality, his infectious energy and his infectious personality are great for our program,” said Enfield when talking to Bolch. “He’s bounced back very quickly, so we’re excited to have him back.”

At 7-1, 220 pounds, it's understandable as to why his frame is something Enfield is excited to have back. If he does miss significant time, Enfield will likely have to rely on four-star PF Kijani Wright, who he brought in this past recruiting class as well.