Tuesday, that response became a reality when McCain's trainers cleared her to play.

The 5-foot-3 point guard made rehabilitation a priority and attacked the injury like the way she plays basketball. McCain will see her first action of the season when the Gators (1-0) face defending national champion Purdue (3-0) in Lafayette, Ind., on Friday.

"We're all excited that she's been cleared, and it's great to see her career get off to a good start," Ross said. "She certainly won't be the Brandi McCain of old, but she's still very talented."

McCain will play two to three minutes at a time, slowly making her way back.

Junior Tombi Bell will continue to start at point guard, while McCain is recovering. Bell's vocal play gives the Gators leadership in McCain's absence. Bell scored five points and dished out four assists in the Gators' opener against Florida Atlantic last Friday.

"We're very close to getting some stability, but we're fine with what we have," Ross said. "We're a veteran team and hopefully we're ready to take on the defending champions."

McCain averaged 7.5 assists a game in SEC play last season and was ninth in the conference with a 35.5 percentage from 3-point range -- which could help UF. Against Florida Atlantic, the Gators went 1-for-13 from beyond the arc.

"McCain's ready to play," Ross said. "We're a better team with her in the game."

Story written by Frank Clouser of the Independent Florida Alligator