Longwood forward academically ineligible

FARMVILLE -- Longwood University senior forward Kirk Williams has been ruled academically ineligible for the fall semester, men's basketball coach Mike Gillian said yesterday.

A returning starter, he averaged a team-best 16.9 points and 6.5 rebounds while earning all-independent first-team honors last year.

Williams will be allowed to practice with the team and can become eligible after fall semester exams conclude December 12, if he meets NCAA academic requirements and fulfills team obligations.

Longwood will open the season Nov. 14, hosting Virginia-Wise in Willett Hall at 7 p.m.