Spellman ruled ineligible

Villanova’s interior depth took a significant hit Friday morning with the news that five-star freshman center Omari Spellman has been ruled academically ineligible after failing to meeting his eligibility requirements in time.

Spellman, the headliner of Villanova’s two-man 2016 class, was slated to join the Wildcats ranked No. 19 in the Rivals150 and expected to become an immediate contributor in a frontcourt that seeks to replace senior standout Daniel Ochefu.

Villanova head coach Jay Wright released a statement regarding the NCAA’s decision to deem Spellman academically ineligible:

“We are extremely disappointed for Omari,” stated Wright. “While we don’t agree with the NCAA’s decision, we are members of the association and respect it. We understand why the NCAA felt it had to rule this way.

“We will make a positive out of this for Omari. He will concentrate on his academics and individual development this season. In the long run Omari will be a better student and player for this experience.”

In the absence of Spellman, senior big man Darryl Reynolds will step into a substantial role as the likely starter after averaging 3.6 points and 4.5 rebounds in 17.1 minutes per game last season. In the three games Villanova was without Ochefu in 2015-16, Reynolds averaged 9.0 points and 10.6 rebounds, including a 19-point, 10-rebound effort on the road in a victory over No. 11 Providence.

Former three-star power forward Tim Delaney and three-star 2016 power forward Dylan Painter should see larger roles than expected with Spellman being forced to redshirt.

Following the 2016-17 season, Spellman will have four years of eligibility left, essentially bolstering a 2017 class that looks to be on pace for a top-10 finish. Spellman was expected to be a frontrunner candidate for Big East Freshman of the Year.

Even in the absence of Spellman, the Wildcats remain as the favorites to headline the Big East. Villanova will begin its national title defense at home against Lafayette Nov. 11.