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KU’s Josh Jackson pleads not guilty to misdemeanor

Kansas v UNLV

LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 22: Josh Jackson #11 of the Kansas Jayhawks warms up before the team’s game against the UNLV Rebels at the Thomas & Mack Center on December 22, 2016 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Kansas won 71-53. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

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Kansas freshman forward Josh Jackson was in court on Wednesday, pleading not guilty to criminal property damage stemming from an incident outside a Lawrence bar back in December.

Jackson was charged with misdemeanor criminal damage in late February for damages he allegedly caused to the vehicle of a Kansas women’s basketball player. According to the affidavit, McKenzie Calvert had thrown a drink into the face of KU guard Legerald Vick, her ex-boyfriend. This led to Jackson following her outside where witnesses told authorities that Jackson damaged a tail light and door of Calvert’s car. The estimated cost of repair exceeded $1,100.

According to Jesse Newell of the Kansas City Star, Jackson is due back in court on May 24. That is the same date as the deadline for entry in the 2017 NBA Draft. Jackson, a projected top-3 pick, has not announced his decision to either go pro or return to Kansas for his sophomore season.

Jackson’s attorney is expected to file for diversion, which is a rehabilitation program for a criminal offender. Completion of this deal would mean Jackson would avoid conviction and a criminal record.