Tyree Appleby takes a brutal elbow from Keve Aluma in Va. Tech-Florida game

UPDATE: Appleby has rejoined the team on the sideline in overtime, but it does not appear he will be going back in the game.

Florida Gators guard Tyree Appleby took an unintentional elbow from Virginia Tech Hokies star Keve Aluma with just over 12 minutes left in their first round NCAA Tournament game.

Appleby headed to the locker room while bleeding profusely, and Aluma headed to the bench to get his right elbow hopefully repaired to get back in the game.

There’s no independent doctor at college basketball games, so it’ll be up to the team trainer and doctor to see if Appleby can return. Here’s the NCAA hoops concussion protocol if you’re curious.

It’s a big loss for both teams. Appleby has eight points and five rebounds so far, while Aluma has been held to just five points and five rebounds so far. And as we write this Aluma is back on the floor. Tracy Wolfson says Appleby is questionable to return, and is receiving stitches in the locker room.

Just after the under-12 timeout, the No. 10 Hokies lead 46-40 over the No. 7 Gators, who lose a waterbug defender and one of their best players on both ends. UF is just 2-10 from three-point range so far, and will need to start making some shots.