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Cincinnati dismisses forward Octavius Ellis from team

Octavius Ellis

Cincinnati forward Octavius Ellis dunks the ball against Alabama State in the second half of an NCAA basketball game, Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, in Cincinnati. Cincinnati won 65-40. (AP Photo/David Kohl)

AP

While charges are unlikely to be filed in regards to a fight at a Cincinnati night club last weekend, Cincinnati head coach Mick Cronin has dismissed freshman forward Octavius Ellis from the program.

According to Fox 19 in Cincinnati, Cronin cited Ellis’ inability to adhere to the program’s standard of conduct which led to his dismissal.

“Octavius didn’t adhere to the standard of conduct I expect from members of our team,” said Cronin. “I will work to help him find a fresh start at a new program because I do care very much for him as a person.

“I believe he can benefit from being in a new environment. That’s likely what will help him the best to learn and mature from this.”

Ellis was one of three Bearcats suspended for six games in the aftermath of their brawl with city rival Xavier back in December, and he finished the season with averages of 2.3 points and 1.7 rebounds per game.

He’s had anger issues in the past, as pointed out by CBSSports.com writer Gary Parrish. Dealing with those issues will be an important issue for Ellis and his family to address if he’s to be successful at his next stop.

After that brawl it was clear that more scrutiny would come with any mistake made. That means players can ill-afford to get themselves into situations like the night club altercation, lest they risk significant consequences.

It remains to be seen whether or not Cronin hands out any more discipline in relation to the night club incident.

Raphielle is also the assistant editor at CollegeHoops.net and can be followed on Twitter at @raphiellej.