Not unexpectedly, Kansas State announced Tuesday afternoon that guard Denis Clemente would miss last night's game against non-conference foe North Carolina Central--in restrospect a fortuitous piece of scheduling--for violation of the NCAA Basketball Rules' section dealing with "a fighting act."
Though not explained, the suspension was obviously in response to a blow Clemente delivered to the head of Kansas guard Tyrel Reed in a missed free throw, blockout situation. This after Clemente had already received a technical foul for an elbow to the back of KU guard Brady Morningstar.
“Denis is a very passionate and competitive young man who knows he made a mistake,” K-State coach Frank Martin said in a statement. “His actions on Saturday are not acceptable and he has to do a better job of maintaining his composure. Denis is the leader of this basketball team and we are 100-percent supportive of him during this time.”
“I am very sorry for my actions on Saturday,” Clemente said. “I understand that I let my emotions get the best of me and, more importantly, I let my team down.”
Big 12 commissioner Dan Beebe, who reviewed the tape Tuesday morning, also issued a comment.
“The Conference accepts this action and I commend Coach Martin for taking the initiative and implementing action that demonstrates his continued commitment to conduct his program with sportsmanship,” Beebe said. “I also appreciate Mr. Clemente’s acknowledgement of his mistake.”
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