The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has suspended Illinois basketball star Kofi Cockburn for selling memorabilia.
Cockburn will have to sit out for three games; the NCAA announced on Monday after the baller sold “institutionally issued apparel and memorabilia” back in June. Illinois would have allowed the sales under its image, brand and likeness law, which is a new rule as of July 1. But because Cockburn sold the items in June, he will have to face suspension for violating the previous NCAA guidelines, UPI reports.
Cockburn, 22, will also have to pay back the money he made off the sales; reports show he will be able to give the money to any charity he’d like.
“We are disappointed with the three-game suspension, because there were unprecedented factors and altered timelines related to his decision to ultimately withdraw from the NBA Draft and return to school,” said Illinois men’s basketball head coach Brad Underwood. “Once Kofi had a full understanding of where he stood regarding the draft, he made an educated decision to return to school, work toward his degree, and continue improving his game.”
Underwood continued: “That said, we understand and respect the NCAA’s decision in this matter, and we will move forward accordingly. As always, Kofi’s attitude and outlook remain upbeat and positive. He is focused on helping his teammates prepare for the season, and we can’t wait to have him rejoin us on the court.”
