Bearcats freshman Stephenson cleared to play by NCAA

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Cincinnati Bearcats freshman men's basketball player Lance Stephenson, a 6-foot-5, 210-pound forward who was named the 2009 Big East Conference Preseason Rookie of the Year, has been cleared to play by the NCAA.

At issue was Stephenson's amateur status after he starred in a documentary with questions if his family received compensation.

As a senior last year at Abraham Lincoln High School in Brooklyn, Stephenson averaged 28.9 points, 10.2 rebounds and 3.9 assists. He had some off-court issues though after being charged with sexual assault on a 17-year-old girl. Stephenson later agreed to a plea deal to a charge of misdemeanor disorderly conduct and didn't serve jail time.

"I am happy to be able to put this behind me," said Stephenson. "Since I committed to the Bearcats back in the summer, all I have wanted to do was get here and start playing ball with my teammates. I want to thank everyone that has given me encouragement and support during this, especially my family, coaches and teammates. They have been with me every step."

Stephenson had nine points in 18 minutes of an 86-58 exhibition win over Saginaw Valley State Thursday night.

Cincinnati opens the regular season November 16 against Prairie View A&M.