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Former students and Billiken basketball teammates Kwamain Mitchell and Willie Reed are seeking readmission to the University this week following a suspension last fall from the school until Jan. 3, after the Student Conduct Board found them in violation of SLU’s conduct code. If readmitted, the scholarships granted to the basketball players will be reinstated, thus allowing them to participate on the Billiken team.
According to Reed, head coach Rick Majerus and requirements set forth by the NCAA will determine whether or not Mitchell and Reed will be redshirted on the team for the remainder of the 2010-11 season. Currently freshman Jake Barnett is the only player to redshirt this season, according to Assistant Sports Information Director Brian Kunderman.
Reed, who said he has completed all stipulations following the suspension, including 50 hours of community service and eight counseling sessions, said he is eager to hear the administration’s verdict concerning his enrollment status this week. Reed, who said he would initially not return to the University following his suspension, has not yet applied to alternative colleges. “St. Louis is where I want to be,” he said. “I love the community there. I love the students. That is where I want to graduate.”
Reed said the period of suspension has taught him not to take things like scholarships and basketball for granted. “I have an opportunity to make something of myself, and I shouldn’t let it go to waste,” Reed said.
Mitchell did not return messages from The University News and could not be reached for comment.
The University could not confirm this report.