North Carolina State University Athletics
Sendek Says Thornton Will Begin Individual Workouts
11/1/2000 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Senior Damon Thornton, who was suspended from the NC State basketball team after encountering some off court problems last month, has been given permission to begin individual workouts under the supervision of a coach.
"We are now going to allow him to work by himself with a coach," said Wolfpack head coach Herb Sendek. "We haven't made a final determination regarding when he'll begin practicing with the team or any other team activity."
Thornton, a 6-8, 240 pound forward from Norfolk, Va., pleaded guilty to driving while impaired and other charges on October 19. He has since entered an alcohol abuse program.
"He remains extremely humble and contrite," Sendek said. "I think he understands the gravity of the situation, and he's willing to do whatever it takes to restore himself in every way possible. We remain committed to helping him stay focused on the issues that are most important to him"
Sendek said he made his decision after consulting with NC State athletics director Lee Fowler and health professionals familiar with the case.
"Like I said all along, I wasn't going to make those kinds of decisions independent of advice and recommendations from professionals," Sendek explained. "Secondly, it seemed to be the next logical step towards reintegration."
Upon being suspended, Thornton was banned from all basketball-related activities. He has, however, been working out on his own in the Reynolds Coliseum weight room every morning.
