USC basketball rules De’Anthony Melton ineligible amid FBI investigation

The Trojans are off to a disappointing 6-4 start without Melton this season.

USC guard De’Anthony Melton finally got some clarity on his status this season amid a looming FBI investigation into corruption charges at the program. Melton has been ruled ineligible by the Trojans while the school continues to look into his role in the charges, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Melton has been held out of USC’s first 10 games as the Trojans have stumbled to a 6-4 start. He was projected as a starter on the wing and a possible first-round NBA draft pick. Melton is a long, versatile defender who can create plays for others. His weakness is his outside shot.

USC was ranked No. 10 in the preseason polls, but has struggled without Melton. The FBI investigation has also cost the program assistant Tony Bland, who was reportedly extremely influential to the team under Andy Enfield. The Trojans have lost to Texas A&M, SMU, Oklahoma, and Princeton in overtime.

Melton averaged 8.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game last year.