Herrick Collapses and Is Hospitalized After Canyons Loss

Coach Greg Herrick of College of the Canyons collapsed Saturday night and was taken to a hospital minutes after the Cougars lost a Southern California Regional women’s basketball game at Orange Coast College.

The exact reason for the collapse wasn’t known and a Costa Mesa paramedic said it appeared to be a seizure based on what information they were provided.

Herrick, who suffered a heart attack a year ago, left the gym on a stretcher but was conscious, breathing on his own and responded to questions, according to the fireman.

He was taken to Hoag Memorial Presbyterian in Newport Beach where he was listed in stable condition but no other details were released.

The players were shaking hands after Orange Coast’s 74-66 victory when Herrick fell to the ground and started shaking. Orange Coast trainer Dan Bright was among the first to rush to Herrick’s aide.

Several Canyons players burst into tears while looking on and parents and other family members were quick to consol.

Several of the players gathered to pray near the coach and most of the stunned crowd of about 400 remained in the gym for about five minutes until asked to leave.

Canyons assistant Harlan Perlman, on his way to the hospital, said that Herrick was fine during the game and has not suffered anything like this before.

Orange Coast Coach Mike Thornton said he asked Herrick about his health before the game and Herrick told him that he had his one-year checkup in February after the heart attack last year and that everything was fine.

Orange Coast (25-9) advanced to the state tournament for the third time in six seasons behind sophomore guard Jennifer Ludwicki, who scored 23 points, including making 12 of 12 free throws.

Canyons held a 61-60 lead with 5:49 left but couldn’t hold on.

Ludwicki’s three-point play put Orange Coast ahead, 63-61, with 4:53 left and Becky Loshak’s three-point shot made it 66-61 with 4:15 left.

Loshak and Natalie Weeks added 16 each for Orange Coast.

Maxine Unverferth and Wendy Gussner each scored 16 points for Canyons, which led, 27-16, midway though the first half. The teams were tied, 34-34, at the half.