KU’s 2003-04 schedule still on hold

By J-W Staff Reports Aug 26, 2003

Kansas University’s men’s basketball schedule remains on hold as the Jayhawks await final word regarding the Guardians Classic and the NCAA’s 2-in-4 rule.

Organizers of the Guardians Classic and other tournaments have filed an appeal in federal court on last week’s ruling in which the NCAA won a stay on a permanent injunction that overturned the rule that allowed teams to play just two exempt tourneys in a four-year period.

A hearing on the NCAA’s appeal of the original decision that wiped out the 2-and-4 rule will be held in January.

“If the stay is upheld until the January hearing we would not be able to play. If the stay is put aside we would be able to play. Hopefully it comes to an answer by Wednesday,” said KU senior associate AD Larry Keating.

If KU plays in the Guardians Classic, it will put off a home-and-home series with Michigan State one year. If KU does not play in the Classic, KU will play Michigan State Nov. 25 at Allen Fieldhouse.

Keating said KU still had one game to “tie down and we should be able to get that done in a day or so.”

Also, an announcement soon will be coming — perhaps today -announcing Danny Manning’s joining the KU basketball department in some capacity. He will not be named a coach as KU has filled the allotted spots on its coaching staff.

Bumps, bruises report: Junior Keith Langford was scratched in the eye during a pick-up game late last week, but was back on the court Monday and isn’t expected to miss any time. … Junior Michael Lee, who strained his knee during the summer, will probably be able to play late this week or early next week. … J.R. Giddens, who had surgery to repair a stress fracture in his left foot, should be released for full physical activity in mid September.