Florida Gators
Kentucky
Gators coach Billy Donovan issues statement, clears forward Erik Murphy to rejoin team
Thursday, September 8, 2011 | Men's Basketball, Women's Tennis, Scott Carter
Gators junior forward Erik Murphy has been cleared by men's basketball coach Billy Donovan to rejoin the team and fully participate in all team activities.
Murphy's involvement with the Gators had been limited since April when he faced a legal charge that eventually was dropped to misdemeanor trespassing outside a restaurant in St. Augustine.
“Erik Murphy has served his punishment,'' Donovan said. “We're all disappointed with what transpired, but there's no question Erik has learned a great deal through the whole process and understands what a great opportunity and privilege it is to play college basketball.''
Murphy averaged 4.3 points and 3.2 rebounds as a sophomore. With the departures of frontcourt players Chandler Parsons, Alex Tyus and Vernon Macklin, the 6-foot-10, 230-pound Murphy is expected to play a more prominent role this season.
The South Kingston, R.I., native has played in 66 games over the past two seasons and is the Gators' most-experienced frontcourt player returning.
As part of resolving his court case, Murphy was ordered to pay restitution and court costs and perform 50 hours of community service.
The Gators, who made it to the Elite Eight last season, open the 2011-12 season on Nov. 11 at home against Jackson State.
