Thursday, February 03, 2005
Pierce Releases Statement
I don't normally copy and paste a lot, but this one is pretty much all a quotation anyway. From Hawk Central -
Former Iowa Hawkeye Pierre Pierce issued a statement to the media today via his attorney, Alfredo Parrish. Here it is:
“I want to thank my family, friends, teammates and Hawkeye fans who have supported and cheered me for the last three years. Your heart must ache as much as mine.
“I am cooperating with West Des Moines detectives and will continue to do so. Should administrators from the University of Iowa have questions, I am available.
“My girlfriend and I had an argument. However, I vigorously disagree with the media’s portrayal of the incident. At the appropriate time, all of the facts will be disclosed, putting the matter in context. Until then, please respect my privacy and that of my girlfriend.
“I am exploring every available option. This includes appealing my dismissal from the team, litigation, withdrawal from the University, transferring schools for my final year of eligibility, and investigating a professional basketball career. It will be at least two weeks before I make a decision.
“In the interim, I will continue my studies at the University of Iowa and rooting for my Hawkeye teammates.”
Pierce then referred all questions to Parrish.
*** END ***
I originally thought that transferring wasn't an option for Pierce, since he already used his redshirt year. I was under the impression that under NCAA rules, you only have 5 years to use your 4 years of eligibility once you came to school. This is Pierce's fourth year at Iowa (3 playing, 1 redshirt), so the year he sits out to transfer would be his fifth. Maybe I misinterpreted something. I think the pros would be more likely.
I was a little surprised he still wants to go to classes, but I guess I heard he's not too far from his degree. Plus he's got to keep going if he actually does want to appeal the dismissal.