Bighamton University men’s basketball has decided not to participate in the America East tournament, which is set to begin on Saturday. At 8-8 in conference play during the regular season, the Bearcats would have been the five-seed.
Binghamton Withdraws From America East Tournament
University President Lois B. DeFleur issued an official release Monday night.
”After numerous discussions and considerations of the possible distractions that may occur this weekend, Binghamton University has elected not to participate in the 2010 America East Men’s Basketball tournament.
This action is being done voluntarily as part of our commitment to move forward as we develop a comprehensive plan to address the recommendations of the recent review.
We commend our student-athletes and coaches for the dedication and determination they have maintained throughout this very challenging year. They have far surpassed expectations. However with the controversy currently surrounding the program it is not appropriate we play in this year’s post-season.”
The “possible distractions” and “controversy currently surrounding the program” that DeFleur may be referring to:
- Point guard Tiki Mayben was arrested on drug charges
- Five players kicked off the team for academic and legal issues
- Head coach Kevin Broadus placed on indefinite paid leave
- Near brawl with Boston University in January
Considering all of that, it’s rather amazing they were .500 in conference play.
Binghamton’s decision not to participate means that it is now an eight-team tournament. No. 8 Albany will face No. 1 Stony Brook on Saturday; originally seeded ninth, Albany was to play No. 8 UMBC in a first-round game, but that is no longer needed.
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