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Keyontae Johnson working as coach amid recovery
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Florida forward Keyontae Johnson working as coach amid recovery

The recovery of Florida Gators forward Keyontae Johnson continues to be the top positive story of a college basketball season unlike any other. 

On Monday afternoon, the Associated Press (h/t ESPN) reported that Johnson is back with the Gators and working as a coach during practice sessions. 

The junior forward selected All-SEC for the 2019-20 season collapsed on the court during a game against the Florida State Seminoles on Dec. 12 and was hospitalized until his release last week. As a result of the incident and due to concerns over Johnson's health, the Gators haven't played since and postponed a total of four contests. 

Florida is scheduled to resume the campaign with an away game against the Vanderbilt Commodores on Wednesday. 

Gators coach Mike White told reporters on Monday that he has "no idea" if Johnson will play again this season and also couldn't disclose such information because of privacy laws. 

"Our guys are ready to move forward, not move on from Keyontae, but move forward with him," White added. 

Johnson reportedly tested positive for the coronavirus months before the start of the season. While COVID-19 infections have been linked with myocarditis, a heart condition that has impacted multiple college and pro athletes during the health crisis, it's not known if Johnson's collapse is related to his positive test result. 

Johnson has expressed his desire to return to practice as an active player, but hasn't yet been cleared by doctors. There's currently no public timetable for when he may be able to resume basketball activities at a competitive level. 

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