The Florida Gators Women’s basketball team is facing a major setback as graduate point guard Zippy Broughton announced she will be out for the 2022-23 season on Thursday.
Broughton posted about her undisclosed injury on social media.
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Broughton’s Impact
Having lost veteran point guard Kiara Smith to a knee injury during the 2021-22 SEC tournament, the Gators were in serious need of a strong and effective guard. Broughton stepped up and took on Smith’s role of point guard, averaging 10.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.4 steals per game, making her pivotal to the Gator’s success.
Broughton’s leadership and determination helped Gator’s Women’s basketball land a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since the 2016 season. Using her fifth year of eligibility, Broughton planned on keeping the team’s progress alive.
Looking Ahead
In a statement from Broughton, she said that despite not being able to contribute on the court, she will continue being a leader on the sideline. As the 2022-23 season approaches, the Gators Women’s Basketball will need to figure out a game plan following the loss of one of their top leading scorers.
With Senior guard Nina Rickards averaging 8.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.0 steals, the Gators will need another guard to complement Rickard’s strong offensive capabilities.
The Gators will host St. Leo for an exhibition game on Nov. 2. They will open regular season the following Monday against Florida A&M in the Swamp.