Simpkins cleared to play at Memphis

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) -- Matt Simpkins, a 6-foot-9 freshman forward from Oakland, Calif., has been cleared to join the University of Memphis basketball team.

Coach John Calipari said Thursday the NCAA Clearinghouse authorized Simpkins to begin practice with the No. 18 Tigers Friday. The player had signed a national letter of intent with Memphis last spring.

Last year, Simpkins played at The Patterson School in Lenoir, N.C. He averaged 17.2 points, 11.4 rebounds and 5.1 blocks.

Copyright 2008 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.