Nov 3, 2009

Kentucky's Star Freshman Cleared By NCAA

Wildcats' Guard Wall Gets OK To Play After Two Game Suspension

Kentucky University announced Friday that freshman point guard John Wall has finally been cleared by the NCAA to be eligible to play for the Wildcats basketball team this season. The 6' 4" freshman's playing status has been up in the air while the NCAA investigated his relationship with his former AAU coach Brian Clifton. The NCAA was concerned as to whether or not Wall had accepted any illegal benefits from Clifton because he was actually a certified agent for a period of time during Wall's recruitment. After extensive review of the situation, the NCAA granted Wall eligibility for this season under the condition that he sit out two games, and that he pay back $800 in expenses incurred during unofficial visits to schools during his junior year at the Word of God Christian Academy.

Both athletic director Mitch Barnhart and basketball coach John Calipari were extremely pleased with the resolution determined by the NCAA and for very good reason. The ability of Wall to play for the team will have a huge impact on the sportsbooks' betting line odds of their chances for a very successful season. Kentucky is currently ranked 4th in the preseason top 25 and that ranking is largely based on the addition of Wall to the Wildcats' program. Wall was considered to be one of the top prospect in the country and his addition to the Kentucky basketball program makes them a pretty sure bet to have a significant impact in both their conference and the NCAA post season tournament.

By Bryan Jackson
Staff Writer
Betsportsweb.com
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