NORFOLK, Va. — As ODU basketball experienced one of it's most tumultuous seasons in 2023-24, Imo Essien was a steadying force. Essien, a point guard, stepped up as a leader on and off the court as Head Coach Jeff Jones went through a number of health issues that forced him to step away from the team.
A season before that, it was Imo himself that dealt with a scary health issue. Then a sophomore, Essien collapsed on the court during a game. He was cleared after extensive testing, though a definite cause of the incident was never identified.
Essien returned to play and had no more issues for over a year. That ended this preseason when he experienced a "recurring medical scare that mirrored the incident from his sophomore season" according to a statement released by Essien.
The situation has led Essien to the difficult decision to step away from playing for the 2024-25 season, with hopes of eventually resuming his career. For the time being, he will remain involved with the Monarchs.
"Although I won’t be in a jersey, I am still 100% committed and will be contributing in any way possible to ensure the success of this season," Essien wrote in his statement.
Essien will be present on the bench as the Monarchs begin their season tonight at home. While he will not be in a uniform, his impact will surely be felt.
