HOOPS: Harris "realizes big mistake," seeks redemption

GAINESVILLE -- Redshirt junior center Damontre Harris, dismissed from the No. 10 Florida men's basketball team in late December, has been granted a second chance.

Following Wednesday's 74-58 win over South Carolina, Gators coach Billy Donovan abruptly announced at the end of his postgame press conference that Harris, a 6-foot-10 transfer from USC, has re-enrolled at Florida in hopes of working his way back onto the team.

Donovan said Harris, who has yet to play a single game at Florida, contacted him via text message several times during the holidays, "realizing he'd made a big mistake."

"He wants to be here," Donovan said.

Harris was suspended indefinitely Nov. 1 for undisclosed violation(s) of team rules. On Dec. 21, the center was officially dismissed from the team and was contacted by various schools as a potential transfer prospect.

But the center had a change of heart and Donovan said Harris could resume practicing with the team sometime this spring.

Florida's coach was adamant Harris will not play at all this season.

"He wants to work his way back," Donovan said. "It's going to be similar to the Scottie Wilbekin situation. He has to meet lots of terms and conditions. Can he make it? I don't know, but if he does it will be a great comeback story."