The University of Kentucky has released a statement from the families of 2011 recruits Michael Gilchrist, Marquis Teague, Anthony Davis and Kyle Wiltjer.
The statement reads:
[QUOTE]
[LEFT]“We are honored that our sons have been considered for so many prestigious all-star games but the NCAA only allows them to play in two such events. Anthony, Michael, Marquis and Kyle will fulfill their lifelong dreams of playing in the McDonald’s All-American game and the Jordan Brand Classic.” [/LEFT]
[/QUOTE][LEFT]The four recruits have opted to play in the McDonald’s All-American game and Jordan Brand Classic, rather than participating in the Kentucky Derby Festival All-Star Game. The NCAA only allows incoming players to participate in two such events.[/LEFT]
[LEFT]The statement seems to be a response to outspoken critiscism from Derby Festival organizer Dan Owens, a Louisville-based attorney. [/LEFT]
[LEFT]Owens told [URL=”http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20110221/COLUMNISTS01/302210107/1002/sports/Rick-Bozich-Derby-Festival-Basketball-Classic-lacks-Kentucky-recruits?odyssey=tabtopnewstextSports”][COLOR=#0d1db8]Rick Bozich[/COLOR][/URL] of the Courier-Journal:[/LEFT]
[LEFT]“It’s the first time I can remember there won’t be a signed Kentucky recruit. It’s insulting to Kentucky fans in the state, and it’s insulting to our game. I don’t understand it.”[/LEFT]
[LEFT]He added, “They’re disregarding Kentucky fans and disregarding the great tradition of our game.”[/LEFT]
