Miami (Fla.) center ruled ineligible

Johnson

UM

CORAL GABLES, Fla. — Miami (Fla.) center Reggie Johnson has been declared ineligible by the university after an investigation revealed members of his family received benefits not allowed under NCAA rules.

Johnson was told of the decision Sunday, hours before the Hurricanes — who are on the NCAA tournament bubble — were playing host to No. 16 Florida State.

The university says Johnson himself took no extra benefits, and that his family were told by members of the school’s former coaching staff that they were permissible.

The university also says the Johnson matter is not related to former booster Nevin Shapiro, who made widespread allegations primarily about the school’s football program last summer.

Johnson is averaging 10.6 points and 6.9 rebounds this season.

The university has asked the NCAA for a speedy decision on Johnson’s possible reinstatement.