Izzo 'disappointed' in Ellis after charges
EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP) -- Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo said Wednesday he is "disappointed" in guard Alvin Ellis III after the player was charged with alcohol-related offenses this offseason.
According to online records from the 54B District Court in East Lansing, the 20-year-old Ellis was charged with a misdemeanor count of underage purchase, consumption or possession of alcohol stemming from a May 2 incident. That charge was dismissed, and he admitted responsibility to a public littering charge, which resulted in fines of $615.
Court records also show Ellis was charged with a misdemeanor count of underage purchase, consumption or possession of alcohol stemming from a June 19 incident. He pleaded not guilty.
"Being a student-athlete at Michigan State University is a privilege. But it also means having increased expectations and responsibilities that don't exist for all students," Izzo said. "Alvin Ellis did not embrace those responsibilities, and as a result there are consequences. We are disappointed in Alvin's actions and will manage the matter appropriately."
An attorney listed for Ellis did not return a message seeking comment.
Izzo recently said Michigan State guard Eron Harris was suspended indefinitely from basketball-related activities. He's been charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated and refusing a preliminary breath test.