Robert Upshaw, a promising big man in college basketball, has been dismissed from the Washington Huskies basketball team for an unspecified violation of team rules.
According to ESPN, University of Washington (UW) confirmed the 21-year-old seven-footer's dismissal Monday night, but would not give the reason. Upshaw was averaging 4.4 blocks per game to go with 11 points and eight rebounds, establishing himself as desirable NBA prospect.
Unnamed sources told ESPN Upshaw's dismissal is related to failed drug tests and that he had the same problem at Fresno State before transferring to UW.
"We wish Rob well as he moves forward in his life, and we will do our best to support him in the future," UW head men's basketball coach Lorenzo Romar said in a statement.
Yahoo Sports reported Upshaw spent some time last summer at John Lucas' rehabilitation center in Houston. Lucas formerly played in the NBA and dealt with substance abuse himself and now helps athletes with numerous kinds of harmful behaviors.
For example, Lucas has also been tied to Mike Rice, a former Rutgers men's basketball coach who dealt with anger management issues.
Upshaw's promise as a big, physical, well-rounded center may still entice an NBA team to draft him in the first round, but clearly he needs help focusing on basketball and getting himself back on the court. Upshaw also struggled mightily at Fresno State, so this season was a breakout campaign.
"I went through a tough period at Fresno State," Upshaw told ESPN around the time he transferred to UW. "I had some maturity problems and didn't focus on what was in front of me. It all made me realize that I need to focus on what's important. I love the game."
