Longar Longar Suspended by Big-12

IRVING, TX - The Big 12 Conference today announced the two-game suspension of Oklahoma men`s basketball student-athlete Longar Longar for an elbowing incident during the OU at Texas Tech game on January 6. On an-inbound play, Longar struck Texas Tech student-athlete Esmir Rizvic with an extended elbow after receiving the ball with 17:05 left in the second half. As a result of the contact, Rizvic sustained a fractured eye socket and underwent corrective surgery on January 8. "After careful evaluation of videotape and review of Oklahoma`s written report, I have concluded that Mr. Longar`s act is in violation of the Big 12 Conference`s Principles and Standards of Sportsmanship," said Commissioner Kevin Weiberg. "On the play, Mr. Longar leads with a high elbow as he pivots after catching an in-bound pass. His elbow made severe and excessive contact with the face of the Texas Tech player causing significant injury. While I do not believe Mr. Longar intended to cause serious injury, and he has no prior history of this kind of incident, I view this as a dangerous and unacceptable play. Therefore, a suspension from competition is warranted. We simply must convey a message that this kind of play will not be condoned." On appeal by Oklahoma, the Conference`s findings and suspension of Mr. Longar were upheld by the Big 12`s Sportsmanship Appeal Board. The Appeal Board consists of the three past chairs of the Council of Faculty Athletics Representatives and the two future chairs of the Board of Directors of Athletics. Its decisions are final. Those hearing the appeal were Mike Alden, Athletics Director, University of Missouri; Mike Holen, Faculty Athletics Representative, Kansas State University; and Gerald Lage, Faculty Athletics Representative, Oklahoma State University. Texas Tech Athletics Director Gerald Myers recused himself, while Texas A&M Faculty Athletics Representative Tom Adair was unavailable and out of the country. Longar`s suspension takes place immediately. He will sit out Oklahoma`s games January 13 at Texas and January 17 vs. Nebraska. In serving his suspension, Longar may practice and travel with the team but is not permitted to suit up or participate in any pre-game or game activities. "It is unfortunate that Mr. Rizvic was injured on this play, and we wish him a full and speedy recovery," added Weiberg. "Although Oklahoma disagreed with the decision in this case, I appreciate their cooperation and professionalism as we processed this difficult matter." The Conference office considers this matter closed and will have no further comment. ---- Big 12 ----