UNC F Hansbrough likely out two weeks

Nov 1, 2008 - 4:21 AM CHAPEL HILL, North Carolina (Ticker) -- The nation's top men's basketball team may have to start the season without its top player.

North Carolina announced Friday that the reigning national player of the year, Tyler Hansbrough will likely miss two weeks with a stress reaction in his right shin.

A bone scan confirmed Thursday's MRI that the injury is a stress reaction and not a fracture, but the senior forward could end up missing the Tar Heels' opener on November 15 against Pennsylvania if it continues to bother him.

"Tyler had some tests today that gave us more information," North Carolina coach Roy Williams said. "There is a great possibility that we will hold Tyler out of practice for the next two weeks, then re-evaluate his condition at that time.

"Of course, we are all disappointed for Tyler and our team, but everybody on the roster has a chance to do a little more and play a little better to help make up for the loss of the national player of the year."

Hansbrough has never missed a game during his three-year career and has missed only one practice over that span.

Last season, Hansbrough averaged 22.6 points and 10.6 rebounds as North Carolina won a school-record 36 games and reached the Final Four for the first time in three years.

North Carolina was the first unanimous No. 1 pick in the preseason coaches poll, which was released Thursday, marking the second straight season that the Tar Heels have received the honor.