Georgetown freshman forward Nikita Mescheriakov violated NCAA rules by playing briefly with a pro team in his native Belarus and will miss the Hoyas' first 10 games of the season, according to a published report.
The Washington Post reported Thursday that the 6-foot-8 Mescheriakov, who was not paid for his service to the pro team, will be eligible to return to game action for a Dec. 31 home contest against Fordham.
Mescheriakov wasn't expected to contribute immediately to the fifth-ranked Hoyas, according to the paper, but several teammates have spoken highly of his shooting ability.
The Hoyas start their season Saturday against William & Mary.