Junior guard will not participate in team activities

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MADISON, Wis. -- Boo Wade, expected to compete to be Wisconsin's starting point guard this season, is taking an indefinite leave of absence from the team.

Coach Bo Ryan announced the move Monday, saying Wade needed to "concentrate on some personal issues," and there was no timetable for his return. Ryan didn't give any details.

Wade, a junior, was suspended for two games last season after his ex-girlfriend accused him of choking her during an incident in early February at her apartment.

Wade pleaded no contest in April to two misdemeanor counts in a plea deal. A battery charge was reduced to disorderly conduct. A charge of bail jumping resulted because Wade continued to contact the woman after he was initially charged.

The announcement posted Monday on Wisconsin's Web site included a statement from Wade.

"I look forward to having the time away from basketball to be able to concentrate on some personal issues in my life and eventually get back on the court," Wade said.

He started 28 games last season, averaging 6.8 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.6 assists.

Wade was in the running to replace Devin Harris, a first-round draft pick of the Dallas Mavericks. Harris was Big Ten player of the year after leading the Badgers to a 25-7 record last season as a junior. He led the team with 19.5 points and 4.4 assists.

Ryan's other options to replace Harris at point guard include Kammron Taylor and freshman Michael Flowers.

Copyright 2004 by The Associated Press

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