Bowser Quits Basketball Team at CS Northridge

Todd Bowser, a three-year starter at center for the Cal State Northridge basketball team, quit the team Saturday after a dispute with the Matador coaching staff.

Bowser said that he informed Coach Pete Cassidy of his decision “in a very short conversation,” eight days after he was the target of a “good old-fashioned chew-out session” by CSUN coaches.

“(Cassidy) ripped me a pretty good one,” Bowser said. “They said it didn’t seem to them that I was committed to the game, and that they could tell just by looking at me.

“They were unhappy with my weight and they also said they were unhappy with my attitude, although I’m not sure what that means.”

Bowser, a bulky 6-8 senior whose playing weight is in the 280-pound range, tipped the scales at 300 pounds this summer. He claimed that was not unusual for the off-season, however.

“Two weeks ago I was in the gym every day and anxious for conditioning to come around so I could lose the weight,” Bowser said. “I was ready to play.”

The former Montclair Prep standout had been lauded by coaches for his work ethic in the past.

Cassidy, questioned Saturday night at CSUN’s football game against Sonoma State, declined to elaborate on Bowser’s departure.

“I’m happy with the people we have,” Cassidy said. “They’re working hard to be the best they can be and I’m concentrating on those people.

“I wish Todd the best and hope he’s happy with his decision. Other than that, I have no comment.”

Bowser averaged 10.7 points and six rebounds a game during his CSUN career. He signed with Northridge to play basketball, although he was a highly touted offensive lineman in football.

Bowser said that he will continue to attend classes at Northridge and would not rule out another try at football. “I can’t say I haven’t talked to the coaches about it,” he said.