Holman given leave from Detroit

Sep 27, 2011 - 9:52 PM Detroit, MI (Sports Network) - Detroit senior center Eli Holman has been placed on a leave of absence from the basketball team in order to address personal issues.

"We have been working with Eli for some time to assist him in addressing his personal matters," said Detroit director of athletics Keri Gaither in a statement released Tuesday. "At this time, we feel it is in Eli's best interest to step away from basketball to allow him to concentrate on these matters. He has been excused from all team-related activity for an indefinite period while actively addressing these issues.

"We continue to support Eli during this time and we are asking everyone's cooperation in respecting his privacy."

The 22-year-old notched 11.8 points, 9.6 rebounds and 1.6 blocks last season for the Titans.

Holman transferred to Detroit from Indiana University in May of 2008, in the wake of a confrontation with Hoosiers head coach Tom Crean.

After sitting out the 2008-09 season per NCAA rules, Holman recorded 11.8 points, 8.9 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per contest in 2009-10.

A native of Richmond, California, Holman was considered among the nation's top 100 prospects when he signed with the Hoosiers. He averaged 24.7 points, 12 rebounds and 10 blocks as a senior at Richmond High School, helping the team to the state Division II championship.