Josh Okogie apologizes for NCAA violations

Georgia Tech guard Josh Okogie

Georgia Tech guard Josh Okogie

Georgia Tech guard Josh Okogie expressed contrition for the NCAA violations that brought him a six-game suspension, but was brief in comments about the matter.

“I want to let (Tech fans) know that I apologize,” he told the AJC Tuesday. “I learned from it and we’re going to be a better team.”

Okogie and teammate Tadric Jackson were both suspended by the NCAA (Jackson for three games) for accepting impermissible benefits in the form of plane tickets, meals and apparel. Okogie has served the suspension and is still unable to play due to an infection in his left index finger, the result of an open dislocation of the same finger. Coach Josh Pastner is targeting the Yellow Jackets’ ACC opener at Notre Dame on December 30 for his return.

Okogie said he couldn’t comment more on details of the violation, such as why he chose to accept the benefits. But he said that having gone through the experience has made him a better person.

“I learned from the whole thing and I just can’t wait to get back on the court,” he said.