Long Beach State’s Yankelevitz Undergoes Tests

Brian Yankelevitz, a key member of the Long Beach State men’s basketball team, underwent extensive cardiological testing Tuesday to help doctors determine why he has repeatedly passed out, Long Beach officials said.

A 6-foot-8 forward/center, Yankelevitz was examined Monday at Long Beach Community Medical Center after collapsing for unknown reasons at least twice. He was transferred to Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles on Tuesday to meet with a cardiologist.

Yankelevitz’s parents, who reside in Queens, N.Y., arrived Tuesday in Los Angeles to accompany their son. Results of the tests might be known as early as today.

“Obviously our No. 1 concern is Brian as an individual,” said Bill Shumard, interim 49er athletic director. “We want to see Brian get better and we’re sure his family will do whatever is necessary to get to the root of the matter.”

A junior last season, Yankelevitz, listed at 245 pounds, started 19 times and played in 25 games. Teammates say he is among the 49ers’ most reliable players and a steadying force.

Yankelevitz averaged only 3.1 points and 3.4 rebounds last season. However, former Coach Seth Greenberg said Yankelevitz played a key role in the 49ers winning the Big West regular-season title.

Long Beach is counting on Yankelevitz to take a similar role next season. Center Ike Nwankwo, who transferred from UCLA, is expected to start, but won’t become eligible until the beginning of the spring semester. Shumard said it is too early to comment on Yankelevitz’s status for next season.

Yankelevitz played in 19 games as a sophomore reserve after transferring from Garden City (Kan.) Community College.