Va. Tech suspends Deron Washington

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BLACKSBURG, Va., Jan. 27 (UPI) -- Virginia Tech suspended guard/forward Deron Washington for one game Friday for conduct detrimental to the sport of basketball.

Washington, a 6-foot-7 inch junior from New Orleans, was ejected from the Hokies' 80-67 loss to 2nd-ranked Duke Thursday night, after kicking the Blue Devils' Lee Melchionni in the face during an incident under Tech's basket with only 90 seconds left in the contest.

"What Deron did (Thursday) night was wrong and I cannot condone it," said Virginia Tech Coach Seth Greenberg.

Washington's suspension, announced by Athletic Director Jim Weaver, came despite his post-game apology to both Melchionni and Duke Coach Mike Krzyzewski.

"I regret my actions from (Thursday) night and accept the penalty issued by Mr. Weaver," Washington said. "This in no way reflects upon my true nature."

Washington, who is averaging 10.9 points per game, will not travel with the team for its game at Wake Forest on Saturday.