NCAA denies Dez Wells' immediate eligibility request

Maryland's initial request to the NCAA for them to allow guard-forward Dez Wells to play this season was denied, according to Jeff Barker of the Baltimore Sun. Maryland now plans to appeal the decision.

Wells was dismissed by Xavier following his freshman season because of allegations of sexual assault. The Hamilton County (Ohio) Prosecuting Attorney never proceeded with criminal charges.

Wells transferred to Maryland, and has been practicing and scrimmaging with the team. According to Barker, "There is little doubt he would immediately be one of the team's top players if cleared to play."

Ordinarily, a player in this situation would be required to sit out a season, but Maryland is seeking a waiver. This is an usual situation, though. Wells was never charged, and the prosecutor made it clear that there was no legal case against the 6'5 small forward, who can also play guard.

Last year for Xavier, Wells averaged 9.8 points and 4.9 rebounds per game.

This story was originally published on SBNation.com.