Crawford denied eligibility by NCAA

Dec 3, 2008 - 11:28 PM CINCINNATI (Ticker) -- Guard Jordan Crawford was denied immediate eligibility by the NCAA, Xavier announced Wednesday.

The former Indiana player had filed an appeal for a wavier to play for the Musketeers this season instead of sit out one season per the NCAA's rule for a four-year transfer.

Instead, Crawford will not be able to play until the 2009-10 season, and will have three years of eligibility remaining.

"We're disappointed in the decision, but greatly appreciate the efforts put forth by our staff and Jordan and his family throughout this process," Xavier associate vice president and athletic director Mike Bobinski said. "Since his arrival on campus Jordan has been an important part of our basketball team and we look forward to his continued efforts and development as he prepares for next season."

Crawford opted to transfer from the Hoosiers over the summer following the resignation of coach Kelvin Sampson due to major NCAA rule violations. The NCAA wrapped up its case with Sampson and Indiana on November 25, giving the former coach a five-year "show cause" penalty and placing the Hoosiers on three years of probation.

Crawford had hoped that the penalties given to Sampson and Indiana would help his cause for playing right away.

The 6-4 guard played significant minutes as a freshman for Indiana last season, appearing in 30 games - eight starts - and averaging 9.7 points.

No. 14 Xavier could have used the services of Crawford, as freshman starting point guard Terrell Holloway is sidelined with a fracture in his foot.