Villanova suspends Pinkston

A decision has finally been reached by Villanova University in the case against freshman JayVaughn Pinkston, who was involved in an off-campus altercation just before the start of the basketball season and has yet to play for the Wildcats.

The power forward from Brooklyn will be suspended from the univesity for the spring semester. He will regain his status "as a student in good standing" and will be eligible for reinstatement next June, and would have four seasons of eligiblity remaining.

All indications are that he plans to return.

He will be allowed to complete this semester, both as a student and practice with the team, which ends Dec. 19.

"I am in support of the university's decision," coach Jay Wright said in a statement. "JayVaughn understands that there are consequences to his actions, and I believe he will continue to handle this in a mature manner. We look forward to his return in June."

Pinkston is facing two counts each of misdemeanor simple assault and harassment, a summary offense, for the incident at a party at a residential house on Keebler Road near Langdale Court in Upper Merion Township. As a result of the fight, two men sought treatment at Bryn Mawr Hospital, police said.

"I am sorry. This situation is my responsibility and I have learned from it," Pinkston said in a statement. "I am going to work extremely hard so that I can return to the Villanova family in June."