It’s official: Staten, Spearman not returning to UD

Both have been given releases, leaving 2 spots for new coach to fill.

The University of Dayton has severed ties with Juwan Staten and Brandon Spearman, a pair of promising freshmen basketball players who announced after the season their intent to transfer.

Staten has been playing in open gyms with his ex-teammates and met with new coach Archie Miller recently, leading to speculation that he might be contemplating a return to the Flyers.

When he left, his father, Bill Staten, said Juwan wanted to play at UD but just couldn’t play for coach Brian Gregory, who took the Georgia Tech job. But that door has officially closed.

“Both young men have gotten their releases from the university and are pursuing other opportunities,” UD Athletic Director Tim Wabler said. “Coach Miller has two open scholarships that he’s looking to fill over time.

“Coach Miller has said what he’s doing is focusing on the team and on the two recruits in Michigan.”

Miller is on the road traveling for the first day of an open recruiting period. He didn’t entirely rule out a return by Staten during an interview Wednesday, but he said his priority was keeping the team unified and doing what he can to help his four seniors-to-be end their careers with a fulfilling season.

Staten made the Atlantic 10 all-rookie team and finished second in the league in assists with a 5.4 average. Spearman was usually the Flyers’ top wing sub, averaging 2.5 points and playing about 11 minutes per game.

The players couldn’t be reached for comment. Bill Staten also declined comment.

Contact this writer at (937) 225-2125 or dharris@DaytonDailyNews.com.

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