Indianapolis, IN – Butler center Andrew Smith has been cleared to practice and could play Saturday against Fordham after sitting out Wednesday's game with an undisclosed injury.
Butler coach Brad Stevens initially stated earlier this week that Smith would sit out two games because of the injury, believed to be in the abdominal area, but gave an update on Friday.
"Andrew has progressed more quickly than expected," Stevens said Friday. "Whether or not he'll play Saturday at Fordham will be a game-day decision."
Smith was struck in the abdomen during a scramble for a loose ball in last Saturday's 59-56 victory over George Washington. He continued to play, but later expressed discomfort to the Butler athletic training staff and underwent further medical treatment.
The 11th-ranked Bulldogs dropped a 71-67 decision at home Wednesday against Charlotte without Smith in the lineup.
Smith is Butler's second-leading scorer and rebounder, averaging 11.4 points and 5.4 rebounds in 24 games.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.