K-State Women’s Basketball Star Ayoka Lee to Miss 2022-23 Season
There is terrible news out of Manhattan, Kansas on Thursday as it has been announced that K-State Women’s Basketball star Ayoka Lee will require season-ending knee surgery on an injury that she has been battling for two years.
“I am devastated for Yokie,” head coach Jeff Mittie said about the setback. “She has battled this knee injury for two years. We were hopeful with a summer procedure and extended rest, she would be able to play this upcoming season. Unfortunately, after meeting with the medical staff the last couple of days she will require season-ending surgery. We will support Yokie through her recovery and rehab and look forward to her returning to the court for the 2023-24 season.”
There is a bit of good news though, as it appears that Lee will return for the Wildcats for the 2023-24 season.
Here is what the 2022 All-American had to say about her situation and what it means going forward.
“While it deeply saddens me that I cannot be on the court with my teammates this season, I am fully committed to getting healthy and contributing as a leader on the sideline,” stated Lee. “Although my role will be different, I am confident in what we will accomplish as a team this year. There is no other team, coaches or support staff I would want to work through this with.
“As my team surrounds me in support through my recovery, my hope is that Wildcat Nation will continue to surround our team with the same love and support they always have. I look forward to getting back on the court and finishing my graduate degree in 2023-24. Forever thankful and blessed to be a Wildcat.”
Lee set all kinds of record in her 2021-22 season, including an NCAA-record 61 points against Oklahoma back in January. The unanimous All-Big 12 First-Team selection will be a major loss for K-State in 2022-23 but will be welcome sight when she returns.
