Howard University has temporarily withheld a number of student-athletes from competition as it conducts an internal investigation into possible NCAA violations committed by its athletic department.
School spokeswoman Kerry-Ann Hamilton confirmed the move in an email to The Washington Post on Wednesday, but added that most teams will compete as scheduled.
It was not disclosed how many athletes were involved or what teams they were from.
"We are working diligently to fully resolve this matter as quickly as possible," Hamilton said. "In order to protect the integrity of this review, we are unable to share additional details at this time."
One Howard softball player said the school was investigating how some student-athletes acquired their textbooks. The player said some athletes were keeping the difference between the cost of textbooks and their textbook allowance.
"It's been going on for a long time," the player said. "A good majority of the athletes were taking advantage of this.
"There were some people who were saving the money. They didn't spend it. Or some would go buy frivolous things, nothing that relates to school. Some people bought books and other school supplies."
Howard competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.
