Will Wade spoke to the media Friday, four days after it was announced that freshman forwards Galen Alexander and Mayan Kiir were being granted “leaves of absence” for the remainder of the season and freshman guard Brandon Rachal and sophomore forward Wayde Sims were suspended for one game.
The Tigers were coming off of an 84-61 loss in Knoxville Wednesday night at the hands of the Tennessee Volunteers.
Wade said the team bond following the suspensions and leaves of absence had grown.
“I think anytime you eliminate distractions, that helps bring the people who are doing the right thing together and let them understand that you value what you’re doing,” Wade said.
Wade further underscored the sense of camaraderie within the team.
“We are a closer group and they enjoy hanging around each other,” Wade said.
The Tigers host the Arkansas Razorbacks Saturday at 2:30 p.m.