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Michael Porter Jr. to undergo back surgery, likely out for season

David Banks / Getty Images Sport / Getty

NBA teams looking to draft freshman Michael Porter Jr., a projected top-three pick, will probably have to do so blindly.

The Missouri forward will undergo a microdiscectomy of the L3-L4 spinal discs, the team announced, with his recovery time set at three-to-four months. As a result, the 19-year-old phenom will likely miss the remainder of the season.

"Our top priority as a program is the well-being of our student-athletes, so Michael beginning this process to be 100% healthy is important to all of us," said head coach Cuonzo Martin in a statement. "Our focus has been on Michael's well-being, just like every other player in our locker room."

Porter Jr. played two minutes in the season opener against Iowa State, scoring two points and grabbing two boards before asking to be removed. He hasn't competed since.

"I really appreciate the support of my family & program as I begin this process," said Porter Jr. in a statement of his own. "I'm thankful for the kind words & messages I've received from fans. Those mean a lot to me. I cannot wait to be completely healthy and playing the game I love, once again."

Porter Jr. was a five-star recruit after spending his senior year of high school at Nathan Hale in Seattle. He was the McDonald's All-American Game MVP and the Gatorade National Basketball Player of the Year.

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