SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- A Syracuse University judicial hearing board has ruled that starting guard Eric Devendorf violated the Student Code of Conduct by allegedly hitting a female student in the face.
The board recommended that Devendorf, a 6-foot-4 junior, be suspended for the remainder of the academic year. He is expected to appeal the decision.
"Any player can still play while the case is under appeal," Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim told ESPN.com on Wednesday, adding he will allow Devendorf to do just that (Syracuse's next game is Saturday against Long Beach State).
The appeals process could take anywhere from 15 to 20 days, Boeheim said.
"He's not going to be treated any differently" during that period, the coach said.
Richard Kesnig, a lawyer who represents the female student, said the university faxed him the decision late Wednesday afternoon.
Devendorf is the third-leading scorer for the Orange (No. 16 ESPN/USA Today, No. 13 AP), averaging 14.1 points and 3.1 assists. He missed most of last season with a torn knee ligament.
Boeheim said he wouldn't have any further comment on Devendorf's case until it is resolved.
Information from ESPN.com senior writer Andy Katz and The Associated Press was used in this report.