Oregon State suspends basketball player who tripped referee

CORVALLIS, Ore., Jan. 18 (UPI) -- Jarmal Reid didn't make the smartest decision when he awkwardly eyed a referee before purposely tripping him Sunday in Oregon State's loss to Utah.

And now he's paying for it.

The senior was ejected with 2:56 to play and later suspended for a minimum of four games by the school for his actions. During the game, Utah center Jakob Poeltl knocked on Reid. Reid fell on the ground and refs let play continue without a foul call. While on the ground, Reid stared down referee Tommy Nunez before sheepishly sticking out his leg and tripping Nunez to the ground.

"We are obviously very disappointed and apologize to everyone involved," coach Wayne Tinkle told the school's website. "Our university and our program do not condone this type of conduct on or off the court. We acted swiftly and severely, but also fairly with the understanding that we are dealing with a 22-year-old young man that we need to help grow through this tough situation."

"We have worked closely with the Pac-12 Conference and their leadership on the suspension. The Conference of Champions sets a high standard for its institutions and student-athletes, and supports the action we have taken at this time."

"Jarmal's conduct and attitude in the next two weeks will determine whether any further action is warranted beyond the four-game suspension."

Reid also apologized on OSUBeavers.com.

"First and foremost, I would like to apologize to Oregon State University, Beaver Nation, the Pac-12 Conference, my family, my coaching staff and teammates, and the game officials," Reid said. "I'm well aware that my actions not only embarrassed my family, but also the university and the Oregon State basketball program."

"I was not raised to act in that manner that was displayed on that play. I'm well aware that I made a mistake that has damaged my image. My actions are inexcusable and I am willing to accept any and all consequences that are to follow."

Reid is averaging 4.2 points and 2.2 rebounds in 15.7 minutes per game.

"We commend Oregon State University and its leadership for taking swift and decisive action in response to this incident," Pac-12 commissioner Larry Scott said. "The Pac-12 strongly emphasizes sportsmanship and fair play in all its athletic competitions and expects high standards of sportsmanship from all participants. Regardless of Mr. Reid's frustration and emotion, such behavior towards a game official is unacceptable and the Conference supports Oregon State's disciplinary actions. The Conference will take no further disciplinary action."

Reid begins the suspension immediately. He will not play in the Beavers' Jan. 20 game against UCLA, its Jan. 23 matchup against USC, its Jan. 28 game at Arizona State or its Jan. 30 game at Arizona.