The three UCLA Basketball players detained in China for allegedly shopliftiong are heading back to the United States. Though they escape charges, they might not escape suspension back home, but what type of punishment is fitting?
The situation in China regarding shoplifting accusations against UCLA Basketball players LiAngelo Ball, Jalen Hill and Cody Riley is apparently over, but there will most likely be suspensions when they get back to Westwood.
RELATED: The 3 detained Bruins heading home; all charges dropped
Though this was an international incident, one that caused United States President Donald Trump to intervene, it ends with all charges being dropped by Chinese authorities. In addition, upon leaving the country, it is important to know that the three Bruins have not been deported.
That is good news from a judicial standpoint, but that does not excuse their actions which will be dealt with by head coach Steve Alford and the UCLA Athletic Department. Ball, Hill and Riley are yet to receive punishment from the program, but what exactly will that be?
I took a poll on Twitter yesterday, asking Bruins fans what they thought would be an appropriate suspension, if any.
Serious poll time.
— Mike Regalado 🏀🏈🎧 (@MikeRegaladoLA) November 13, 2017
Let’s say Ball, Hill and Riley can come back to the U.S. by the Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend (missing six games total).
What should their punishment be?
The results are as follows:
- Time served (in China), reinstate: 14%
- 1-10 game suspension: 39%
- Suspended for the year: 26%
- Kicked off the team: 21%
Despite a select few, most fans thought that Ball, Hill and Riley should face additional punishment. Most of these results were taken before it was known that all charges were dropped, which might skew a few voters to more lenient punishment, but it seems the overwhelming majority wants to see these three pay for their poor decision making that turned a goodwill trip to China into a national embarrassment.
UCLA desperately needs these three players this year, but they will move on with or without them. Ball, Hill and Riley have to face the consequences of their actions, but at the same time, UCLA Basketball needs to move forward and take care of their own business.
We could hear about possible suspensions on Wednesday, as UCLA will hold a press conference in regards to the situation.
UCLA will hold a press conference tomorrow morning at 11 a.m. Pacific. LiAngelo Ball, Jalen Hill and Cody Riley will share statements, followed by Steve Alford and Dan Guerrero.
— Jeff Borzello (@jeffborzello) November 14, 2017
Next: Bruins fall two spots in latest AP Poll
If they are allowed to play later in the season, fine. Though they will be off suspension, their punishment will continue, especially from opposing fans who will give UCLA the business when the Bruins hit the road this season.