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Arizona basketball fans react to no Allonzo Trier

Posted at 10:29 PM, Jan 12, 2017
and last updated 2017-01-13 15:31:33-05

Another win for the University of Arizona Men's Basketball team Thursday night, beating Arizona State University 91-75 -- and another game without sophomore guard Allonzo Trier.

Trier, now missing his 18th game of the season, has been ruled out for an unknown eligibility issue. As conference play continues, many fans wish they had a bit more clarity on why the star guard isn't on the court.

"Would I like to know?" Junior Joe Butt said. "Absolutely, I think everyone would like to know," 

Another junior, Patrick Bersack, wants some kind of answer.

"I think we deserve some kind of clarification," he said.

Thursday night, Trier shot around before the game, donning his signature sweatpants. During the game, he was very animated on the bench, cheering his teammates on and focusing intently on every play.

Many students say they wish there was some kind of timetable for his return, because they can't wait to watch the guard tear up the hardwood. That being said, they say they'll continue to support him, wanting the best for him and the program.

"I think if he's out for the whole season at least we'd know he'll get good playing time next year," student Micah Brown said. "And that he's getting the rest he needs."

Ryan Harper, a season ticket holder, explained he would love to know why Trier isn't playing, and why the University hasn't shed any light on the reason. However, he understands it may be a long time before he knows anything, and he's okay with that.

"I trust Greg Byrne, I trust Athletics, I trust Sean Miller," he said. "There's a reason why he's not playing and so I try to keep my faith in them -- they're doing the right thing for the University."

Earlier in the week, Head Coach Sean Miller addressed the media during a press conference with no update on Trier's eligibility.

"If I knew more, I would say," he said. "If I would be able to, I would say. But this is far, far higher up the ladder than me. I'm just a soldier in the army, following orders."

Coach Miller, and fans like Harper, hoping Trier gets a chance at some minutes on the hardwood at some point this season.

"I think Trier is the difference between a Pac-12 Championship and the Final Four," Harper said.