Two USC Women’s Basketball Players Arrested
April 1st 2008 11:33 pm
by Marilyn McManus, SECWB.com
Two freshman basketball players were arrested today in connection with “financial card theft” and drug-related charges. Jasmine Payne and Ashlie Billingslea were arrested by USC police following the search of a room at the South Quad dormitory. According to USC spokesman Russ McKinney, the number and exact charges to be brought against the players had not been fully determined. The players were expected to be formally charged and booked tonight, at the Richland County jail.
Payne is a native of Bay Springs, Mississippi, who appeared in 25 games this season. She played about 10 minutes per game, averaging 2.6 points and 2.1 rebounds. Payne started three games at the guard position and impressed fans with her energetic style of play.
Billingslea is from Stone Mountain, Georgia. Projected to be the starting point guard for the 2007-2008 season, she injured a knee in preseason practice and underwent surgery. Taking an aggressive approach to rehabilitation, she was able to return to the team about halfway through the season. Billingslea eventually appeared in 14 games, averaging 1.8 points and 1.4 rebounds per game.
Both players have been suspended from the team, per USC policy, and coach Susan Walvius has declined comment, through a team spokesperson.
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