According to Los Angeles Times reporter Baxter Holmes, UCLA freshman Shabazz Muhammad has been cleared to play by the NCAA.
Holmes, who broke the news through his Twitter account, had previously reported that UCLA’s hearing with the NCAA regarding Muhammad’s eligibility had ended around noon on Friday.
The NCAA released a statement regarding Muhammad’s reinstatement:
The 6-foot-6 Muhammad has already missed UCLA’s three games and will be allowed to play immediately, which will be Nov. 19 against Georgetown.
Last Friday, Muhammad was ruled ineligible for amateurism rules violation. The NCAA had accused Muhammad of accepting travel and lodging during three unofficial visits to two schools.
UCLA is currently 3-0, but adding Muhammad is clearly Ben Howland’s biggest win of the season. Muhammad, one of the nation’s top recruits, was part of UCLA’s top-ranked recruiting class, alongside point forward Kyle Anderson.
The Bruins now add another scorer, although fellow freshman Jordan Adams, has been impressive so far, averaging 24 points per game. Muhammad is an explosive scorer with a great motor. He has the ability to force his way into the lane and finish above the rim.
Muhammad should make his debut against Georgetown on Monday. The game will take place in Brooklyn.
Terrence is also the lead writer at NEHoopNews.com and can be followed on Twitter: @terrence_payne