Central loses 3 players, gets probation

Three Shelbyville Central basketball players have been suspended for the season after being involved in an altercation following the Shelbyville/Lawrence County game last Friday night, school administrators said Wednesday.

Senior standout Emmanuel Andrews, junior Trevor Reed and sophomore Dequairous Allen were suspended for allegedly throwing punches during the altercation that took place as several spectators from the Lawrence County student section rushed the floor as the Golden Eagles were attempting to get into their locker room.

"It's just unfortunate to have a situation like this happen this late in the season," Central coach Kevin Thomas said. "This is really hard on Emmanuel, Qua, Trevor and all of the kids.

"All we can do is just step up and show everyone how much character we have and get through this together. I really hate this for Emmanuel. He's the school's all-time leading scorer and it's a shame he has to go out like this. He really loves the game of basketball and no one questions how hard he plays the game."

Andrews, who has over 2,000 points and is one of the state's top scorers this season with over 28 points per game, was recently nominated as a McDonald's All-American.

In hopes of avoiding further incidents, Shelbyville moved the placement of both student sections to where they are now on the opposite side of the floor from the teams' benches and across from their own teams.

The basketball programs at both Lawrence County and Shelbyville have been placed on probation for two years, effective immediately, with a fine of $500 each year. The probationary period does not affect postseason play of either team.

The administration of Lawrence County High School identified the students involved in the altercation. These students were disciplined by the Lawrence County High School administration. They have been banned from

attending athletic contests involving its school for the remainder of the basketball season.

The Eagles (13-10) travel to face Cookeville on Friday night at 8.