Illinois basketball players Brian Carlwell and Jamar Smith both suffered severe concussions when a car Smith was driving skidded into a tree just before midnight Monday, an Illinois basketball spokesman has confirmed.

Smith was treated and released at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. Carlwell was admitted to the hospital for treatment and remains in serious condition in intensive care after being admitted to the hospital in critical condition.

The accident occurred on South First Street in Champaign, between the University of Illinois and Smith’s off-campus apartment, Assistant Athletic Director Kent Brown said.

Smith was cited for improper lane usage, Brown said, and campus police say further action is possible depending on the outcome of the investigation. Brown also confirmed that Smith then drove the car with Carlwell inside back to his apartment in Savoy. Ambulances arrived at the apartment to take both athletes to the hospital.

Brown said he could not comment on what contributed to the crash, although the winter storm may have been a factor. He said he could not comment on whether Smith, 19, had been drinking.

“I cannot and I would not confirm that. It’s a legal matter,” Brown said. “Our concern right now is the health of these two guys.”

Smith’s vehicle, a 1996 Lexus, was registered to Smith’s grandparents, Leroy and Salmena Smith, who he lives with in Peoria.

Athletic Director Ron Guenther released an official statement earlier today.

“Certainly, our thoughts are on the health and recovery of our two student-athletes, and in supporting coach Weber and our basketball program,” Guenther said.

Smith, a sophomore guard, averages 8.1 points per game for the Illini. Carlwell, a freshman, sees limited minutes as a reserve center, averaging 1.7 points and 1.4 rebounds per game.

The Illini are 18-9 overall and 6-6 in the Big Ten after struggling throughout the season with injuries across all positions. Only three players – center/forward Shaun Pruitt and guards Calvin Brock and Trent Meacham – have played in every game.

The Illini next face Northwestern at the Assembly Hall on Sunday.