The Michigan women’s basketball team has lost a key player in senior forward Kayla Robbins, who announced via Twitter on Tuesday that she tore her ACL in Sunday’s game at Nebraska.
“Unfortunately, I have suffered an ACL tear that will keep me out for the remainder of my senior season” Robbins said in a statement posted to Twitter. “As much as it pains me that I will never get to play in a Michigan jersey ever again, I know that God has a plan for me and my future. This season I have accomplished more than I ever thought I could with my teammates and wouldn’t trade it for the world. I have great teammates, coaches, and staff that have been there every step of the way since I’ve been a freshman and continue to support me. Injuries will test you physically and emotionally, but know that I am strong enough to undergo my road to recovery. I am ready to help and support my team as we finish out the season. This will not be the last time you hear my name be called. Forever, Go Blue!”
The Nebraska game was her last as a Wolverine, as it is too late in the season to qualify for a medical redshirt.
Robbins was the team’s second-leading scorer, averaging 11.6 points per game. Without her, Michigan will have a major hole to fill offensively. Her quick shooting release and agility off the dribble made her lethal when driving the lane and opened up space for teammates to create opportunities away from the hoop. She also provided a tough defensive presence, with eight blocks and a team-leading 29 steals.
In her first three seasons, Robbins was a consistent producer off the bench, appearing in at least 33 games each year. This season was her first as a starter.
As one of just two seniors on the team, Robbins took on a leadership role this year, providing scoring when the team desperately needed it during droughts. But the Wolverines will need to look elsewhere for that stability for the remainder of the season.