300-pound sophomore collapsed lifting weights

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VALPARAISO, Ind. -- Valparaiso center Kenny Harris remained unconscious and in critical condition Monday, a week after he collapsed while lifting weights.

The 6-foot-10, 300-pound sophomore had battled weight and health problems since he came to Valparaiso from nearby Griffith High School in 2003, when he was an Indiana All-Star and runner-up for the state's Mr. Basketball award.

He was in the university athletic center weight room when he collapsed during a supervised workout April 11.

"Mr. Harris has not regained consciousness, and this is cause for concern," said Andrew J. Snyder, a spokesman at Porter hospital. "However, the results of recent preliminary neurological tests are favorable."

The hospital, citing federal privacy regulations, wouldn't release any other information about the nature of Harris' ailment.

His weight ballooned to more than 400 pounds by the time he started his freshman year. He was listed on last season's team roster at 310 pounds. He also has had operations on his gall bladder and for a herniated disc.

Harris averaged nine points and five rebounds in 11 games last season as the Crusaders went 15-15.

Copyright 2005 by The Associated Press

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