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Georgetown says NCAA clears C Josh Smith to play immediately, including opener against Oregon

Associated Press
Published | Updated

Georgetown men’s basketball team head coach John Thompson III, speaks to reporters during a preseason media availability in Georgetown’s McDonough Arena in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2013. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) (The Associated Press)

Georgetown men’s basketball team head coach John Thompson III, speaks to reporters during a preseason media availability in Georgetown’s McDonough Arena in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2013. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) (The Associated Press)

Georgetown says the NCAA has cleared center Josh Smith to play basketball immediately, starting with the Hoyas' opener against Oregon in Seoul, South Korea.

Georgetown adds Wednesday that Smith was granted a waiver for last season, when he played in six games before transferring from UCLA, meaning he has two years of eligibility remaining.

Coach John Thompson III says Smith, listed at 6-foot-10 and 350 pounds in the Hoyas' media guide, "has to maintain a high level of commitment on and off the court."

Georgetown faces Oregon on Nov. 8.