Feb. 22, 2002

OXFORD, Ohio - One day after Miami University men's basketball senior forward Alex Shorts (New Orleans, La./Algee Fortier) was dismissed from the team by head coach Charlie Coles due to continual differences, the two have come to an understanding that has resulted in Shorts' reinstatement to the team, effective immediately.

The two parties met Friday morning, and a decision was made to work through the conflict that has been going on through much of the season.

"Several people close to Alex called me yesterday and asked me to meet with him and be open about giving him one more chance," said Coles. "I've never been the type of person to completely shut the door on anyone and have always tried to treat my players as I would my own children and really consider my players to be a part of my family. We met this morning and he has agreed to my conditions. Make no mistake that things are going to change. I truly believe Alex wants to be a part of this team, and I'm ready to take him back under those conditions."

"I know the last 24 hours have been as tough on Coach Coles as anybody involved in the situation, because he is truly a player's coach and genuinely concerned about each and every player on his team," said Miami Athletic Director Joel Maturi. "People attached to the program can take pride in the fact that we have a man of great integrity and sincere compassion heading our men's basketball team. The fact that both Alex and Charlie can come to an understanding on this speaks volumes for the type of player-coach relationship that is a part of this program and the type of mutual respect each person has for the other."

Shorts has decided to rejoin the team on Sunday, Feb. 24.