Former Xavier forward Dez Wells announced via Twitter Tuesday morning that he'll continue his basketball career at the University of Maryland.
Wells was expelled from Xavier two weeks ago for what the school called a "serious violation" of the code of student conduct. No legal charges were filed after an investigation on a sexual assault allegation, and last week Hamilton County prosecutor Joe Deters called Wells' expulsion "fundamentally unfair."
Xavier's administration chose to stand by the decision to sever ties, and Wells made visits over the last several days to Kentucky, Oregon, Memphis and Maryland.
Wells tweeted a picture of a statement in announcing for Maryland. The statement in part read: "The last couple weeks have been the toughest of my life for my family and I have learned that it's a major responsibility that comes with being a student-athlete at all times. I'm thankful that God has blessed me with a second opportunity to continue my education."
The high-flying Wells averaged 9.8 points per game as a freshman last year, starting every game except the four he was suspended for his role in Xavier's fight with Cincinnati. He would have been the Musketeers' leading scorer and a candidate for All-Atlantic 10 honors.
All five regular starters from Xavier's Sweet 16 team last season have now departed. Three exhausted their eligibility, Wells was expelled and Mark Lyons left for Arizona. Travis Taylor, who averaged 4.5 points per game, is Xavier's leading returning scorer.
