A college basketball player collapsed suddenly on the court Saturday, sparking fears among his teammates and fans watching the event.

Imo Essien, a sophomore guard at Old Dominion University dropped to the floor while clutching his chest with just over 13 minutes remaining in the first half in a match between ODU and Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Georgia.

WAVY-TV reported: "After a few tense moments, Essien, who did not appear to lose consciousness, was helped to his feet and walked off the court with the help of the trainers."

A statement from the team indicates: "He was responsive throughout and was able to sit with team for the duration of the game and travel back with the team.

"He is in good spirits and will work with the ODU Sports Medicine staff when they return to Norfolk."

The Virginian-Pilot newspaper gave scant coverage to the incident, reporting the athlete merely "fell down without contact."

"The Monarchs' Imo Essien fell down without contact during the first half. He walked off the court under his own power and went to the locker room.," the paper stated.