It came as a shock to many when news broke out that five Indiana University (IU) basketball players had been suspended from the team due to violations of team rules. The five players, including two starters, were suspended indefinitely on February 15th, 2020. This suspension comes at a crucial time for the Hoosiers, who are currently ranked #13 in the NCAA rankings and have an 18-9 record. But what exactly did these five players do to get suspended?
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Background Information
The five players, who have been suspended from the team, are senior guard Devonte Green, junior guard Aljami Durham, sophomore forward Race Thompson, junior forward De’Ron Davis, and freshman guard Armaan Franklin. All five players have had major roles in the team’s success this season, with Green and Durham starting in nearly every game. Green has averaged 10.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game this season, while Durham has averaged 8.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.2 steals per game. The other three players have all seen significant minutes off the bench, and have made valuable contributions to the team.
Details of the Suspension
The IU Athletic Department has been relatively quiet about the details of the suspension, only releasing a short statement on the matter. The statement said that the players had violated team rules and that they were suspended indefinitely. The statement also mentioned that the players had been given an opportunity to meet with the IU coaching staff and discuss their actions.
Speculation Surrounding the Suspension
Since the details of the suspension have been kept under wraps, speculation has been rampant as to why the five players were suspended. Some have speculated that the players were involved in a fight at a local bar, while others have suggested it may have been related to a violation of curfew. It has also been suggested that the players were suspended for missing a team meeting or practice.
Reaction from Fans and Teammates
The reaction from fans and teammates to the suspension has been mixed. Many fans have expressed their disappointment in the team and the players, while others have been supportive and understanding, citing that the players may have had a valid reason for their actions.
Teammates of the five suspended players have also reacted to the news. Senior guard Josh Newkirk said he was disappointed in the players’ actions, but also said he was confident that they would learn from the experience and become better teammates. Senior forward Collin Hartman also commented on the suspension, saying that the team would move on and focus on their upcoming games.
Conclusion
The suspension of five IU basketball players has been a major blow to the team, as all five of the suspended players have had major roles in the team’s success this season. While the details of the suspension remain unknown, speculation has been rampant as to what the players may have done to be suspended. Fans and teammates have reacted to the news, with many expressing disappointment and understanding. It remains to be seen how the team will adjust and move forward without the suspended players.