Top-ranked Missouri basketball player, Michael Porter Jr., is scheduled to undergo back surgery Tuesday in Dallas, according to team officials. The 6–foot-10 freshman has an expected three to four month recovery period and will likely miss the remainder of the season.
In a statement, Porter said: "I really appreciate the support of my family and the Mizzou Men's Basketball program as I begin this process. I'm thankful for all the kind words and messages I've received from fans. Those mean a lot to me. I cannot wait to be completely healthy and playing the game I love, once again."
Porter left the season opening game against Iowa State after two minutes. He had been an early prediction to enter the NBA draft as a top-tier pick.
He was considered last year's top high school basketball recruit in the country and was the 2017 McDonald's All-American MVP.
