The Mountaineers 2010 freshman class no longer exists.
First, it was David Nyarsuk, a 7'1" Sudanese center didn’t have the academic qualifications to get eligible this year. Then Darrious Curry, a 6'7" small forward, was disqualified due to a heart condition. And last week Kevin Noreen, a 6'10" forward, had knee surgery last week and is out for the season.
The only one left was Noah Cottrill, a four-star point guard and West Virginia native.
And now he is gone after he withdrew from school last week. In fact, Cottrill hasn’t actually been with the program, having only participated in a couple of practices early in the season:In late October, before the start of the season, WVU issued a release saying Cottrill had been “suspended indefinitely.” No details were offered. The reason given was “conduct unbecoming a Mountaineer."Rumors swirled. Cottrill dropped off the radar. Attempts were made to call, including for this column. His previous numbers, however, are “not reachable,’' according to recorded messages.
The rumors still persist. At least one person has gone online to pray for him.
What’s happened? Well, according to Logan coach Mark Hatcher, Cottrill has been spending time between Logan and Michigan, where his brother Ricky lives. He made one appearance at Logan’s gym during a practice, but disappeared before the end.
Its a shame, really. Cottrill was the state player of the year in West Virginia last season. He had a chance to live out the dream that so many young athletes have.
Who knows where he will end up. If the internet rumors are true, then you hope he has been taking this time to get himself better.
Its a shame to see someone throw away talent and an opportunity like this.
The good news for West Virginia? Jabarie Hinds will be headed to Morgantown. At least Huggins was able to recruit a back up plan.
Rob Dauster is the editor of the college basketball website Ballin’ is a Habit. You can find him on twitter @ballinisahabit.