The ball went through the basket — swish — and a smile curled up on the shooter’s face.
Yes, this is the stuff. How I’ve missed you, old friend.
Austin Butler was out of basketball for the last three months as he recovered from shoulder surgery. But the former Latrobe star and rising junior guard at Holy Cross got up a few shots Monday at a playground court for the first time since he went under the knife April 18. It was like a release of pent-up energy; the beginning of a return to full strength.
Butler, a former Patriot League All-Rookie selection who has started 53 of 64 games in two seasons in New England, played most of last season with a torn labrum.
“I tore my labrum completely, and my rotator cuff was frayed,” said Butler, a two-time WPIAL scoring champion who averaged nearly 30 points a game as a senior at Latrobe. He played through the pain last season as he delayed a diagnosis and, ultimately, the surgery.
“I played all season with it and knew something was up with it but waited until after the season to get it checked,” Butler said. “I am getting better each day.”
Butler started all 33 games last season and averaged 12.6 points and 4.1 rebounds in 34.5 minutes. He made 56 3-pointers, second most on the Crusaders (16-17).
The repaired shoulder should be less of a distraction now for Butler, who again is expected to be a key backcourt player come November.
He still likes to pull up from any spot at which he feels comfortable on the floor.
“No more discomfort every time I shoot,” Butler said. “And less fatigue.”
Butler will play for a new coach this season. After the retirement of Bill Carmody — who coached the Crusaders for four seasons and stalked the sidelines at various stops over four decades — former Marquette assistant Brett Nelson has taken over.
Butler said he is excited to play for Nelson.
It’s been 3 long months with no basketball and I’m finally cleared to start shooting again ?? pic.twitter.com/lG7FJv8p42
— AB (@austinbutler44) July 8, 2019
When life throws you lemons you need to make lemonade! Finding the positives – your body will get some much needed rest, your shoulder is now fixed, and you will be stronger than ever! Your best seasons lie ahead of you @austinbutler44! #rest #recover #rehab #succeed pic.twitter.com/FJNyMsVzrv
— Michele (@Michelebutler05) April 18, 2019
Many prayers for @austinbutler44. I know he is in good hands. ???. pic.twitter.com/v3A1MOUIcO
— Michele (@Michelebutler05) April 18, 2019
Austin Butler continues working hard to improve his game. We are looking for him to take another big step forward in 2019-2020! pic.twitter.com/AjgO4YRqL7
— Holy Cross MBB (@HCrossMBB) June 26, 2019
