Former men’s basketball player Jacolby Hardiman faces two felony charges stemming from a June 24 incident at O’Kelly’s Sports Bar and Grill.

The former senior forward faces felony larceny in a building and possession of a financial transaction device charges. He was released on $8,000 bond.

Steve Smith, director of public relations, would not elaborate on the reason Hardiman was dismissed from the team, and said the university is restricted with how much they can say because of privacy laws.

Assistant Sports Information Director and Director of Electronic Media Rob Wyman said Smith was handling the issue. Last week, Wyman issued the official statement the team is taking.

“He’s been released for failing to follow team rules and failing to represent the basketball program in an appropriate manner,” he said.

Both Smith and Wyman said they wish not to alter the official statement.

Hardiman has a preliminary examination scheduled at 8:15 a.m. Thursday at the Isabella County Courthouse, 200 N. Main St. He will be represented by a court-appointed attorney.

Upon his release from jail, he cannot violate any laws and cannot leave the state of Michigan. Hardiman has a girlfriend and a child in Milwaukee, Wis.

Men’s basketball coach Ernie Zeigler confirmed Hardiman had other off-court issues that played a factor in his release.

“He had some issues that definitely contributed to that decision,” he said. “(The June 24 arrest) is an incident that will be settled in due process. I can’t comment either way on his legal situation.”

Regarding this latest incident, Zeigler said the issue could be looked at after it is through the judicial system if the court sides with Hardiman.

“I think in light of the other issues that are in play, it would have to be looked at,” he said. “Once he goes into the legal process and it plays itself out, we would cross that bridge at that point. Right now, he is dismissed from the team for violation of team rules. It’s unfortunate that he has these other issues that he’s dealing with.”

Hardiman is the basketball team’s fifth member of the program to be cut this offseason.

He joins Lawrence Bridges, William Eddie III, Adrian Hunter and Jeremy Allen, the four other players that left the program this offseason. The four other players left on mutual terms.

Hardiman started 28 games for the Chippewas last season, averaging 32 minutes per game. He recorded 9.7 points and 4.9 rebounds per game and tied for second on the team with 45 steals.

Hardiman transferred to CMU last season from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith.

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E-mail the author: Andrew Stover