Florida Gators basketball player Keyontae Johnson, out since 2020 collapse, gets ceremonial start vs. Kentucky Wildcats

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Florida forward Keyontae Johnson, who collapsed during a game in December 2020 and hasn't practiced or played since, got a ceremonial start on senior day against No. 7 Kentucky on Saturday.

Johnson was on the floor for the first of two opening tips, got the basketball from teammate Colin Castleton and took a few dribbles before handing it to an official. He then hugged starters on both teams, did a pushup at midcourt and kissed the giant Gators logo — all while receiving a standing ovation.

After acknowledging the fans, Johnson shook hands with Kentucky coach John Calipari before heading back to the Florida bench to embrace coach Mike White and the rest of the Florida coaching staff and players.

Johnson was one of seven Florida seniors honored about 10 minutes before the game. He had his parents and his young daughter on hand for the ceremony. He quickly changed from jeans and a T-shirt into his No. 11 uniform and was on the floor for layup lines. He had his cellphone tucked into his shorts for the first one, a clear sign of just how long it's been since he's taken part in a game.

The 22-year-old senior from Norfolk, Virginia, is expected to turn pro and try to get medically cleared to work out for NBA teams before the draft. He also has a $5 million insurance policy that would pay out if he never plays pro ball.

Johnson's policy went into effect in July 2020, five months before he crashed face-first onto the court at Florida State. He's taken on the role of «Coach Key» ever since.

The Southeastern Conference's preseason player of the year in 2020 turned his attention toward pursing a potential NBA career. He needs medical clearance — something that hasn't happened in the 15 months since his collapse