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Illinois Basketball News: Brandon Paul Has A Broken Jaw

Illini guard Brandon Paul broke his jaw during an open gym practice on Thursday.

By Ricky O'Donnell
Mar 1, 2012; Champaign, IL, USA; Michigan Wolverines guard Trey Burke (3) fouls Illinois Fighting Illini guard Brandon Paul (3) during the second half at Assembly Hall. Michigan won 72-61. Mandatory Credit: Bradley Leeb-US PRESSWIRE
Mar 1, 2012; Champaign, IL, USA; Michigan Wolverines guard Trey Burke (3) fouls Illinois Fighting Illini guard Brandon Paul (3) during the second half at Assembly Hall. Michigan won 72-61. Mandatory Credit: Bradley Leeb-US PRESSWIRE

With the early departure of center Meyers Leonard to the NBA Draft, Brandon Paul will be expected to carry the Illinois Fighting Illini next season. The guard's offseason plans took an unexpected twist on Thursday when Paul suffered a broken jaw when diving for a loose ball during an open gym workout.

According to the Chicago Tribune, Paul sustained the injury after colliding with teammate Devin Langford. He had surgery on Friday and is expected to miss about two weeks before he returns to non-contact drills.

Paul provided the top moment of Fighting Illini's disappointing 2011-2012 season when he hung 43 points on No. 5 Ohio State during the Illini's thrilling 79-74 upset victory in front of the home crowd at Assembly Hall. As a junior, Paul averaged 14.7 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game.

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