Tucker working on responsbilities before rejoining team

Sophomore Anthony Tucker is back in Iowa City and meeting his requirements to rejoin the Iowa men's basketball team, Iowa Coach Todd Lickliter said Thursday.

Tucker, 20, was suspended indefinitely Dec. 20 after his arrest for public intoxication following an incident with a taxicab driver. It was his second alcohol-related offense, which triggered an automatic suspension. Tucker needs to complete a full alcoholism assessment and 30 hours of community service.

“He's making progress toward his requirements as far as the university and athletic department (are concerned),” Lickliter said. “I know he's making progress in that regard, so he's closer to being reinstated.”

Tucker was academically ineligible for the second semester last season. That's not a problem this year, Lickliter said.

Tucker is not allowed to practice until his department responsibilities are cleared up, per Lickliter's rules.

“My policy has always been until you fulfill your responsibilities then I'm not going to allow you to practice until that's done,” Lickliter said. “That's been my stand forever. I believe it's the right way to go about it. I think you need to strictly focus on getting responsibilities you have before you move on to the court again.”

There's no timetable for Tucker's return. He averaged 11.6 points a game and started the first 11 games before his suspension. Matt Gatens, who is Tucker's roommate, said he wants Tucker to return as quickly as possible.

“I would hope so and I would love that, but I don't know what the administration is going to decide,” Gatens said.