Murray State suspends guard Zay Jackson for the season

MURRAY, Ky. -- Murray State has suspended sophomore guard Zay Jackson for the 2012-13 season.

Jackson had been suspended indefinitely last month after his arrest after striking two people with his car in a Wal-Mart parking lot following an altercation. He pleaded guilty on Oct. 12 to wanton endangerment and was to be sentenced Monday.

However, the case was delayed when the judge recused himself, and then a surveillance video was released showing Jackson driving around the parking lot with one of the victims on the hood of his Chevy Monte Carlo.

Athletics director Allen Ward referenced the video when announcing that the suspension had been extended, saying that besides meeting his legal obligations, Jackson would have to "go above and beyond the steps required to be an exemplary citizen" to be reinstated.

"It goes without saying that Zay showed a considerable lack of judgment that has not only embarrassed himself, but his team, the university and our fans as well," Ward said.

"I will not condone such behavior. He is fortunate that the results of his actions were not more harmful than they were. But if we truly care about making a difference in his life, it is imperative that he spends this year showing me and Coach (Steve) Prohm that he is remorseful, getting the help that he needs, and deserving of a second chance."

As a freshman reserve Jackson averaged 4.9 points, 2.3 assists and 2.1 rebounds. He was projected to start this season for the Racers, who open the season Nov. 9 against Brescia, an NAIA member.

Jackson is due back in court on Nov. 13.