UConn freshman guard Ryan Boatright is being held out of competition, including tonight’s preseason exhibition against American International College, while the school and the NCAA investigate his eligibility, the Associated Press reported.
Boatright will continue to practice with the team and will be allowed to sit on the bench during games, but will not dress or play until the investigation is complete.
UConn has no comment on the matter.
Boatright’s grandfather, Tom, told the Chicago Sun-Times the family did not know why Ryan was being held out.
“We don’t have the slightest idea,” he said. “Ryan is upset about it, naturally. He wants to be playing but we’ve told him to trust in God. … We’re just hoping for the best and need to let the NCAA do their job.”
The 6-foot point guard, who won the team’s slam dunk competition during its annual First Night celebration, was expected to see a lot of playing time this year as a backup for sophomore Shabazz Napier.
UConn freshman Andre Drummond, who last week suffered a broken nose and mild concussion during practice, has been cleared to play in Wednesday’s game with a facemask.
