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The Iowa State Cyclones have confirmed the dismissal of redshirt freshman Xavier Foster from their men's basketball program. While it was not made clear why Foster was removed, it is worth noting that it came amid the sexual assault allegations against him.
In a statement on Friday to address the removal of Foster from the team, Cyclones coach TJ Otzelberger emphasized the “high standards” they set for their student-athletes on and off the court. He also shared why the move is “necessary” as they try to foster and build the culture of the program.
“We hold our program to high standards and there are expectations that our student-athletes be accountable both on and off the court,” Otzelberger said, per Des Moines Register. “After much consideration, I have decided that this is necessary as we continue to build our culture.”
With regards to the legal trouble Xavier Foster is facing, The Register noted in its report that the youngster is the “target” of investigations for sexual assault.
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The said incident allegedly happened in Ames, Iowa during a party. An 18-year-old female reported the assault, with the now ex-Cyclones player being involved after a search warrant was executed in his name. Foster's DNA was then collected through cheek swabs as part of the investigation.
“I can’t talk specifics, but oftentimes when we investigate cases, victims steer the ship. Sometimes they may want to wait to make decisions. It’s all led by how the victim wants to handle it,” Ames police spokesperson Jason Tuttle said of the investigation and the gap between the incident and taking Foster's DNA.
Foster was expected to be a key piece for the Cyclones, especially considering that he's a four-star recruit. It remains to be seen what will happen to him next amid the investigation, but it is worth noting that he had not been able to practice with the team before his dismissal because of health issues.
