basketball player on ground
An Old Dominion University men’s basketball player scared a bunch of people after he suddenly collapsed to the ground as the team took on Georgia Southern.

The incident occurred in the first half. Old Dominion sophomore guard Imo Essien was on the defensive side of the ball when cameras caught him suddenly collapsing to the ground. He struggled to get back to his feet and started to lay down on his back appearing to be in pain.


Medical personnel for Old Dominion rushed over to attend to Essien. He appeared to be conscious.

“Imo Essien was evaluated by the ODU Athletic Training staff along with the GA Southern medical staff,” the school stated. “He was responsive throughout and was able to sit with the team for the duration of the game and drove home with the team.”

“He is in good spirits and will work with the ODU Sports Medicine Staff when they return to Norfolk,” the statement continued.

Essien is averaging 29.4 minutes this year and his scoring average jumped from 1.2 to 5.4 points per game.

Old Dominion won the game, 81-75, in overtime.