UD basketball dismisses forwards Scott, Robinson from program

By: Chris Bendel – Sports Editor

Junior forwards Devon Scott and Jalen Robinson, who played together for Northland High School in Columbus, Ohio, and entered the UD basketball program together as part of head coach Archie Miller’s 2012 recruiting class, were dismissed from the program Wednesday, per a violation of team rules, according to Miller.

The decision was based on unacceptable behavior within the scope of program expectations and according to Miller, Scott and Robinson did not meet the standards of acceptable conduct.

“These two individuals have failed to meet the expectations and standards that we have for our student-athletes and as representatives of this university,” UD Vice President and Director of Athletics Tim Wabler said.

“There are no winners. It’s a sad day,” Miller said. “This is a basketball decision right now. This is a program decision and from this point forward, we’ll move on.”

While still currently enrolled in the university, the program has ruled out any chance of a future return to the team for the two forwards.

“When you care about people, you work with them. It’s very, very difficult. At the same time, you have to do what’s right for everyone else too,” Miller said.

Miller declined to comment on any specific incidents tied to the dismissal, but sources say an event related to the announcement occurred in one of the campus dorms.

“From our standpoint, it’s pretty cut and dry,” Miller said, adding that any further action against Scott and Robinson will fall under the authority of university campus life administration.

The Flyers lose two 6-foot-9-inch forwards, a severe blow to their frontcourt depth and height. The tallest player now on the roster stands at 6 feet 6 inches.

Scott started all nine games this season, averaging 27.7 minutes per game and leading the team in rebounding with 7.4 rebounds per game. He was also a team captain.

Averaging just over 15 minutes per game, Robinson provided depth at the forward position and had been scoring 3.2 points per game over the first nine games of the season.

Miller relies on the resiliency of his players in moving forward after such a large personnel shake-up that will change the team’s style of play dramatically.

“It will change everything,” Miller said. “Every player’s role on our team has increased.”

For the first time following the announcement, the Flyers will host Boston University 7 p.m. Saturday at the UD Arena.

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