University addresses questions regarding Terrence Shannon Jr.'s return to team

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — University Associate Chancellor Robin Kaler released a statement regarding some of the questions that have arisen since a federal judge ruled that Illini basketball player Terrence Shannon Jr. could return to the team.

Shannon was suspended from Illinois' basketball team on Dec. 28, 2023 after being charged with rape in Kansas. Last Friday, Judge Colleen R. Lawless granted a Temporary Restraining Order filed by Shannon's legal team.

In her ruling, Judge Lawless said that Shannon would "suffer irreparable harm without an injunction" and that by keeping the suspension intact, potential harm to him outweighs potential harm to the university.

According to Kaler's statement the, "preliminary injunction entered by the Court is a procedural step tied to an underlying lawsuit filed against the University. That lawsuit remains an active, open piece of litigation, and as such the University is limited in what it can say about it at this time."

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Kaler reiterated that the nature of the allegations in Shannon's case elevated discipline decisions out of Coach Brad Underwood's scope. He was not involved in either the decision to suspend or reinstate.

"In keeping with the Court’s directive, Coach Underwood was instructed to treat Mr. Shannon as he would any other member of the team in good standing and not limit participation based on the involved allegations."

Though he's been reinstated, Shannon is still in the University student conduct process as well as the criminal case in Kansas. "In the event there is a resolution in either of those forums, the University and DIA would evaluate that information and take appropriate action under its policy and consistent with the Court’s Order."

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.