Oct. 13, 2005

Villanova, Pa. - Villanova forward Marcus Austin (Irvington, N.J./St. Patrick's High School) will undergo surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff in his right shoulder. As a result of the injury, Austin, who graduated last spring, has elected to forego his final season of athletic eligibility in 2005-06.

The 6-9 Austin began his Wildcat career in 2001-02, making two starts in 28 games while averaging 1.9 ppg. As a sophomore he averaged 2.1 ppg in 30 games before suffering a foot injury that eventually required surgery. Austin was later granted a medical redshirt for 2003-04 before returning to play 30 games in 2004-05.

In July of 2005, Austin injured the shoulder while playing basketball. An MRI taken at the time revealed the tear and he was presented with the option of immediate surgery or a non-operative rehabilitative path. Austin chose the non-surgical course which featured immobilization of the shoulder and physical therapy, which he has done for the last eight weeks.

"Unfortunately, the shoulder has not responded as we all hoped it would have," said Villanova head coach Jay Wright. "After considering his options, Marcus has chosen to have surgery and begin the recovery process now in the hopes that it gives him an opportunity to play professionally overseas next season.

"Marcus earned his degree last spring and has made a very meaningful contribution to our program. Our entire basketball family will miss Marcus but we respect his decision to move forward with his surgery."

"I tried to rehab it as best I could these last two months," stated Austin. "But the doctors have told me that it could be re-injured at any point. I decided it would just be best to have the surgery now and begin my rehab.

"I wish the team well. We accomplished a lot last season and I'll be rooting for them to do even more this year."