Oct. 15, 2007

EVANSTON, Ill. - Northwestern University men's basketball student-athlete Kevin Coble has decided to take a break from the basketball program to be with his mother, Carlys, who is undergoing cancer treatment in Phoenix. He remains enrolled in courses at Northwestern and will return to the men's basketball program when he feels the time is appropriate.

"My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer and is now receiving chemotherapy treatments in Phoenix," Coble said. "During this time, I want to be there with her. I would like to thank the coaches and my teammates for their incredible support. A special thanks to President Bienen for his encouraging words, my professors, and also thanks to the athletics department whose assistance has been invaluable. I am looking forward to getting back on the court at the conclusion of my mom's treatments so that I can have my biggest fan back in the stands."

Coble, a sophomore forward, was named to the Big Ten All-Freshman Team last season after becoming the first freshman in school history to lead the team in both scoring (13.4 ppg) and rebounding (5.2 rpg).

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Kevin, his mother and their family," Northwestern head men's basketball coach Bill Carmody said. "We fully support Kevin in this decision to be with his mother and we will welcome him back whenever he feels ready to return."

Northwestern opens its 2007-08 season Nov. 7 with a home exhibition game against University of Chicago at Welsh-Ryan Arena.