Utah State basketball: Danny Berger remains in critical condition

MURRAY — Utah State basketball player Danny Berger remains in critical condition at Intermountain Medical Center after collapsing Tuesday during practice at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum in Logan from cardiac arrest.

According to IMC medical spokesman Jess Gomez it's still unknown what caused the cardiac arrest.

"A lot of evaluation at this point, but nothing that I'm able to announce," he said during a scheduled press conference Wednesday afternoon. "The unit where he is located, these are some of the best physicians and medical staff in the country. He's getting the very best care possible. Right now, the main focus is further stabilizing him and treating his condition (and) in the process find out what caused this."

Berger was administered CPR and an automated external defibrillator was used by Utah State's medical trainer Mike Williams and his staff immediately after his collapse. He was then transported by ambulance to Logan Regional Hospital prior to being airlifted by medical helicopter to IMC — a Level 1 trauma center that is properly equipped to provide extensive care for critically ill or injured patients.

Utah State was conducting a final practice session before boarding a team bus to Provo to play BYU when Berger collapsed on the court. The scheduled game between BYU and Utah State was officially postponed Wednesday morning. The expeditious attention and care the training staff provided ultimately saved Berger's life.

"Most importantly, along the way, in order for Danny to get here and be alive today a lot of credit goes to the training staff at Utah State University," Gomez said. "They saved his life. Without them he would not be here today and he would not have gotten to this point."

Berger, a Medford, Ore., resident, is currently listed in critical condition, in what Gomez described as "a standard listing for patients in this particular intensive care unit," while noting, "I think he's doing, right now, as best as can be expected."

Currently, it is unknown what caused the cardiac arrest. Berger was in and out of "sleep" throughout Wednesday while receiving treatment from what Gomez referred to as a "diverse team that helps patients that are fighting for their lives," comprised of cardiologists, pulmonologists and trauma specialists.

Berger, a junior-college transfer, is averaging 7.6 points and 3.6 rebounds as a starter during his second season with the Aggies.

His brother John and sister Lauren, delivered a scripted statement during the press conference and elected not to field questions.

"We want to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. I know that you have made a difference in keeping my brother alive," John said while choking back emotions. "We are so thankful for everyone who has been so kind and willing to help in any way. Thanks to the medical staff here at Intermountain Medical Center, at Logan Regional Hospital, and Danny's teammates and coaching staff. Most of all, thank you to Mike Williams, the Utah State University trainer who was at practice when Danny collapsed. He saved my brother's life and I thank God for him."

Utah State will conduct another press conference tonight in Logan at 5 p.m. Further information will be forthcoming.

Email: tphibbs@desnews.com, Twitter: @tphibbsami