Dec. 30, 2008

Coach Pearl Update on Chism Audio - 12/30

Tennessee associate athletic trainer Chad Newman reported Tuesday that junior Wayne Chism suffered elbow and spine contusions during a fall in Monday's game against Louisiana. A full recovery is expected, and his status will be evaluated on a day-to-day basis.

Chism hit the floor hard after blocking a shot on a fast break during the second half of Monday's 89-62 win over the Ragin' Cajuns at Thompson-Boling Arena. He was removed from the arena on a stretcher and transported to UT Medical Center, where he underwent precautionary testing on his head and neck. All tests were negative, and Chism was released from the hospital early Tuesday morning.

"Obviously we're all thankful that Wayne's injury does not appear to be serious," UT head coach Bruce Pearl said. "There was a lot of praying going on (Monday night) when he went down, and with some 21,000 Vol fans hoping he was going to be all right, those prayers seem to have been answered.

"Wayne's really sore, as is to be expected, but we hope to get him back at some point during the week if his recovery allows."

The Volunteers (9-2, 0-0 SEC) do not practice Tuesday, but will return to the court Wednesday in preparation's for Saturday's game at Kansas.