Zay Jackson Suspension: Murray State Guard Suspended For Entire 2012-13 Season

In a move that has been expected for weeks, Murray State has suspended sophomore guard Zay Jackson for the entire 2012-13 season.

Jackson, 20, was expected to be a starter this season after being a freshman reserve in 2011. But that was before he intentionally struck two people with his car in a Wal-Mart parking lot following an altercation on September 9.

Following the incident, Jackson was arrested on second degree assault charges, but the charges were later changed to second degree wanton endangerment charges. Jackson plead guilty and was sentenced to 30 days in prison.

“Zay’s suspension will remain in effect during the 2012-13 season,” he said in statement. “He will not be allowed to participate in any contests during the upcoming season. It is my expectation that Zay will concentrate on getting the help he needs, fulfill the requirements that will be dictated by the court, go above and beyond the necessary steps required to become an exemplary citizen.”

As a freshman, Zay Jackson averaged 18.4 minutes, 4.9 points, 2.3 assists, and 2.1 rebounds per game.

“I care a great deal about Zay and am committed to seeing that he gets the help that he needs,” Murray State head coach Steve Prohm said in a statement Wednesday. “What he did was wrong and I want to apologize to everyone that has been negatively affected and embarrassed by his actions. It’s not representative of our program and the impact we try to make in the community each year.”

Coach Prohm added:

“Although the impact on our basketball team is something we’ll have to work hard to overcome, I support the direction we are taking with this matter. I know we have a good group of young men that will work hard to represent Murray State the right way this season.”

Murray State kicks off its season on November 9 against Brescia.

Surveillance video footage of Zay Jackson Wal-Mart hit-and-run can be seen below: