Roy Williams says Hairston faces "severe consequences"
North Carolina coach Roy Williams issued a statement on Monday, saying there will be "severe consequences" for P.J. Hairston, the team's high scorer last season who was charged with misdemeanor marijuana possession and driving without a license early last month.
"I initially decided not to make a statement about P.J. until the legal process had been finalized," Williams said in the statement, according to the Fayetteville Observer. "I believe that is the fair way that everyone should be treated and is the way of our country. P.J. and I have had several discussions already and he knows he has made serious mistakes and there will be serious consequences as a result. Certainly the idea of suspending P.J. has been discussed.
"However, he is not currently enrolled in summer school, is not practicing with the team and we have no games until November. There are several options available in terms of discipline, but we are going to wait until the process is complete to decide on those options. Other issues have been written about recently that are disturbing and bother me deeply. Our basketball program is based on great ideals, and these issues are embarrassing. These are not common in my 10 years as head coach at UNC, and they will all be dealt with harshly and appropriately at the correct time to ensure that our program will not be compromised.
"We will care about each individual, but there will be serious actions taken that will fix these issues. I take pride in our values and how we have conducted ourselves for a long time here at Carolina, and this time will pass, but it will be dealt with strongly. We are talking about a program that has been a model of success on and off the court, and it will be again. I want to thank our fans for their patience, understanding and support."
Hairston was taken into custody on June 5 after he and two others were found with marijuana. A gun and ammunition were also found outside the car they were in.
The "other issues" Williams mentioned in his statement presumably refer to Fatts Thomas, an ex-convict who has rented cars tied to Hairston.
CBSSports.com reported that the NCAA likely will investigate the car rentals.
Hairston is scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 2 for a speeding ticket he received in May.
