Texas Tech reinstates Nigel Bethel, will serve three-game suspension

The Texas Tech Red Raiders have reinstated freshman defensive back Nigel Bethel after he was dismissed last month for punching Red Raiders women’s basketball player Amber Battle at the school’s recreation center.

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“This is an unfortunate situation with a unique set of circumstances and there are no winners,” said Kirby Hocutt, Director of Athletics. “Every decision related to this case has been the right one at that particular time based upon our principles, student-athlete code of conduct and team rules. As I continued to work with Coach Kingsbury and Coach Whitaker, we looked at the totality of the situation and have arrived at this decision. Two talented young people made a mistake, have shown remorse and learned some very valuable life lessons.”

Although he has been reinstated by the football program, he will be required to serve a three-game suspension to start his freshman season.

Also in the release from the school on Wednesday, Bethel expressed how thankful he is for the opportunity at a fresh start, despite the heinous action of his offense.

“I am thankful for the opportunity to come back to Texas Tech,” said Bethel. “I take full responsibility for my actions and I would like to let everyone know that this won’t happen again. It’s not who I am and I am sorry for the embarrassment this has caused. I want to thank Amber Battle for accepting my apology and for coming forward to say that I deserved a second chance. I would like to thank everyone at Texas Tech, including the coaches, for believing in me and giving me a second chance to show my ability and to receive an education from Texas Tech.”

Battle has been suspended by the school for her role in the incident as well, which you can actually watch in the video below: