Quote:Xavier freshman forward Jalen Reynolds has been suspended indefinitely from the basketball team, coach Chris Mack announced Tuesday.

“All of our players have responsibilities greater than basketball,” Mack said. “Any time those responsibilities are not given the appropriate attention, the first thing eliminated to allow them to narrow their focus is basketball. When Jalen can demonstrate he is able to successfully manage those responsibilities, he will rejoin our team.”

The news comes less than two weeks after Xavier lost another freshman, Kamall Richards, to an ACL tear. Without Richards and Reynolds, the Musketeers’ freshman class has been halved, leaving Brandon Randolph and Myles Davis.

Reynolds’ suspension follows one of his best outings. He played eight minutes against Providence after other forwards were sidelined with foul trouble. Reynolds finished with six points, his most since the Abilene Christian game Nov. 25, and four rebounds.

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After Xavier’s 81-72 loss at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center, Mack was asked about the progress of Davis and Reynolds. Both were denied eligibility by the NCAA last year and could not participate in team activities.

“I think they’re still getting adjusted to college basketball. It’s not easy. In high school it’s just sort of you’re the best player. You get the ball when you want. Defensively, there’s really no accountability. And all that changes at the college level,” Mack said.

“Each of them have had huge moments for us this year. But those guys are going to be like the stock market a little bit. They’re going to be up and down, as most freshmen are going to be. But they’re a huge part of our team. And it’s on them to continue to come to practice every single day, to want to improve. And I’ve seen that. They’re doing a great job.”

Reynolds’ suspension was announced three days later. In 19 games this season, he has averaged 2.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 10.1 minutes.