Faulcon's suspension was not related to the Durham incident. In a letter from the NCAA, it was revealed that he received $1,440.98 in impermissible benefits and was declared ineligible for 30 percent (9 games) of the 2013-2014 season at ECSU. As part of his reinstatement, Faulcon must donate $1,440.98 to a charity of his choice.
The decision raises new questions about when UNC basketball player PJ Hairston, who was driving a rented SUV when he, Faulcon, and friend Carlos Sanford were stopped, might learn his fate from the NCAA. As of Wednesday, Hairston is still waiting. Leslie McDonald, who is facing separate issues involving the promotion of mouth guards, is also still waiting. UNC spokesperson Steve Kirschner said Wednesday there is "no update" on any possible decision for Hairston and McDonald.
The rented SUV Hairston was driving was linked to convicted felon Hadyn "Fats" Thomas. Officers also found a handgun near the scene, but never linked it to Hairston, Faulcon or Sanford. Drug charges against Hairston were dropped. Faulcon took a plea deal and is serving 6 months probation. The case against Sanford remains unresolved.
Hairston has been suspended from the team since July after the drug arrest and two speeding tickets. In September, head coach Roy Williams allowed Hairston to practice with the team saying "he has earned the opportunity" after doing "everything he's been asked to do" and showed a "sense of remorse."
If Hairston's suspension was going to equal what Faulcon received (9 games), he would be eligible to return tonight when the Tar Heels take on Texas at the Dean Smith Center. UNC is 7-2 without Hairston and McDonald, including major wins over Louisville, Kentucky and Michigan State.
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