Here's a story that did not make the Register's Web version Wednesday.

Eaves to transfer
Freshman’s departure opens up scholarship for UConn

By Brett Orzechowski
Register Staff

University of Connecticut freshman forward Ben Eaves announced Tuesday afternoon that he is leaving the program and plans to transfer to another school.

He will continue to attend classes and work out with the team. He has been in contact with some schools but it is still early in the process.

Eaves, of Lancashire, England, appeared in 11 games this season for the Huskies and scored one point. He committed to UConn after playing one year at Worcester (Mass.) Academy.

"Ben and I met this week and he let me know that he has decided to continue his college career at another institution," Huskies coach Jim Calhoun said in a statement. "While I am sad to see Ben leave, I completely understand his feelings and will do everything I can to help him transfer to a school where he can enjoy the best experience for him as a student and as a basketball player. I wish him nothing but good luck in the future."

Eaves' departure gives UConn an available scholarship. Anthony McClain, a 7-foot high school senior from National Christian Academy in Fort Washington, Md., has been the focus of the coaching staff's recruiting efforts this winter. Marcus Thornton, a junior college guard from Kilgore (Tx.) College, is also being considered even though sources said he is favoring Louisiana State. Also, guard Donnell Beverly from Leuzinger (Calif.) High School outside of Los Angeles, is being considered by the coaching staff.

"We're not in a situation where we have someone sewn up. We still won't get commitments right away," associate head coach Tom Moore said, "but we're not pushing anyone away. With McClain, probably our next phone call will be one to set something up with him for a visit."

Ferguson granted probation

Thaddeus R. Ferguson was granted accelerated rehabilitation Tuesday at Rockville Superior Court for his role in the theft of laptops with two University of Connecticut basketball players.

Both Marcus Williams and A.J. Price received accelerated rehabilitation in Oct. 2005 for their involvement. Ferguson, 21, must perform 400 hours of community service during the two-year probationary period, violate no laws and is not permitted on UConn’s campus.

According to the Rockville Superior Court clerk’s office, Ferguson is listed as Williams’ cousin. UConn police arrest Ferguson on Jan. 26 after three warrants were issued during the investigation into the stolen laptops on the Storrs campus.

Ferguson was arrested by New York City police in early January for jumping a subway turnstile to avoid paying the fare, a misdemeanor.

Brett Orzechowski may be reached at borzechowski@nhregister.com

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