Greedy Peterson out at Providence

Yesterday, SLAMOnline reported that Jamine Peterson, a 6'6" forward from Providence College that averaged just under 20 points and 10 boards for the Friars last season, was leaving school with the intention of pursuing a career in Europe.

"I sat down with my family and my coach and we thought it was best thing to do," said the New York City native. "I spoke with some of Brandon Jennings's people. I consulted with them and they told me it's not going to be easy. I like the way it worked out for Jennings. I feel like I can go out there and contribute in rebounding and attacking the rim."

What Peterson didn't mention is that he didn't have a choice.

Regardless of whose decision it was, Greedy Peterson won't be in a Providence uniform next season.
(photo credit: Daylife)

Late yesterday afternoon, Providence announced that Peterson was kicked off the team for the dreaded 'violation of team rules'.

"Jamine Peterson has been dismissed from the men's basketball team for a violation of team rules," head coach Keno Davis said in a statement released by the school. "Jamine had a productive season in 2009-10. However, regardless of his athletic accomplishments, it is essential to the integrity of the program that every student-athlete meets the high standards and expectations we have at Providence College."

Providence was not very good last season, losing their last 11 games before finishing the year 12-19 and just 4-14 in the Big East. With second scorer Sharaud Curry graduating and Peterson out of the picture, it doesn't appear that the Friars will be all that improved next year.

Peterson came to PC in 2008, coming off the bench as a freshman. Keno Davis decided it would be in Peterson's best interest to red shirt the 2008-2009 season, and he was right. Already a physical specimen -- at 6'6", Peterson checks in at a muscular 230 lbs and was one of the best athletes in the Big East last year -- he added range on his jump shot and a much improved perimeter game.

That improved perimeter game is what made Peterson so dangerous this past season. He was big enough to defend a power forward, but there aren't many four men that are capable of defending a player like Peterson on the perimeter.

Peterson will be forced to play at least one season in Europe -- where some believe he can be successful -- before automatically becoming eligible for the 2011 NBA Draft.