New Mexico State Aggies Basketball Player Suspended Indefinitely After Punching Opponent
In a shocking turn of events, the New Mexico State Aggies men’s basketball team has taken swift action against one of its players for a violent incident on the court. Aggies forward Robert Carpenter lost control of his emotions during a game against Liberty University when he punched opponent Shiloh Robinson in the face while vying for a rebound.
Despite the Aggies’ victory with a final score of 79-73, head coach Jason Hooten was deeply concerned about the incident. “First and foremost, I just want to apologize to Liberty University coach Ritchie McKay for the incident,” Hooten expressed. “Even if there was something that put Rob in that state of mind to do what he did, it’s still not acceptable.”
Coach Hooten’s suspicions were confirmed when the school announced Carpenter’s indefinite suspension. According to the NCAA’s rules of conduct, any player involved in an altercation during a game must serve a one-game suspension. However, the Aggie men’s basketball program believes that a more serious approach is necessary to uphold the values of sportsmanship and respect. “We feel it is important to emphasize that the Aggie men’s basketball program places the utmost priority on the values of sportsmanship and respect and feel that an indefinite suspension is necessary,” stated New Mexico State athletics.
Carpenter has personally apologized to Robinson for his actions, and Coach Hooten believes that this incident does not define his character entirely. However, the team feels that some time away from the court is essential. “Robert is a good kid. Unfortunately, he showed some poor judgment during the game and made a mistake,” Hooten expressed. “I believe he is a high-character guy, as are all the guys that we bring into this program.”
Carpenter, who transferred from Mississippi Valley State, is currently in his first season with the Aggies. Despite this setback, he has been a valuable asset to the team, ranking third in scoring with an average of 9.7 points per game.
