Players’ Request Is Denied

Two Georgia basketball players sued Wednesday for the right to play in the conference and NCAA tournaments, but a judge quickly denied their request for a temporary restraining order.

The university pulled out of the tournaments Monday after an investigation showed evidence of academic fraud by players.

Starters Ezra Williams and Steven Thomas -- who were not accused of wrongdoing -- asked that the school be compelled to play.

Judge David Sweat denied the temporary restraining order, but scheduled a hearing for Monday, according to his clerk, Sophia Tooten.

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Nolan Richardson will have to wait more than a year to bring his case against the University of Arkansas. A trial date of May 3, 2004, was set for Richardson’s lawsuit against the school, which fired him as basketball coach last March after 17 years. In a related story, the school gave Stan Heath, the coach who replaced Richardson, a one-year contract extension.... Citing health concerns, Jim Kerwin resigned as coach at Western Illinois because of health concerns.... Elon’s Mark Simons, who coached 10 years at the school, has resigned after a 12-15 season.