UNR denies Cooke release from program

RENO -- UNR athletic director Cary Groth has denied sophomore basketball forward Malik Cooke a release in good standing from the program.

Cooke and his family cited his stepfather's illness and business financial difficulties in asking to be released. Groth denied the request, which was upheld by a university appeal board, the Reno Gazette-Journal reported.

Cooke, who averaged 9.6 points and 6.2 rebounds while starting every game this past season, has said he wants to transfer to a school closer to his home in North Carolina

Cooke could still transfer without an official release but could not receive a scholarship while he sits out a year awaiting athletic re-eligibility.

"If we are to grant releases, then we would make it easy for athletes to transfer instead of keeping their commitment," Groth told the newspaper. "Much time and money is invested in the recruiting process and while the athletes are at Nevada."