Gary Johnson Cleared to Practice

He hasn't yet been cleared to play in games, but on Thursday the University of Texas officially cleared freshman forward Gary Johnson to practice with the basketball team.

In June, Texas freshman forward Gary Johnson had not been cleared to participate in any physical activities because of a heart condition. But on Thursday, Johnson was cleared to practice and officially joined the 2007-2008 Texas Men's Basketball team. He has not yet been cleared to play in games, but it's a promising announcement for the freshman.

Texas Athletics released a statement on Johnson from athletic trainer Fred Burnette:

“Gary Johnson has been cleared at this time to participate in practice. The decision about him competing in games will be made at a later date.”

The team medical staff continues to monitor Johnson. The forward averaged 26 points and 13 rebounds a game his senior year at Aldine High School.