Self decides Little can return to competition

Mario Little, the senior forward for No. 3 Kansas who missed six games after being charged in a fight, has been cleared to play.

Coach Bill Self announced the decision late Monday. The 22-year-old Little was arrested Dec. 16 after a fight involving his girlfriend and others. He was charged with seven misdemeanors.

Self said Little received a diversion agreement from Lawrence Municipal Court for two battery charges and will receive weekly counseling through the end of the season. He said Little deserves a second chance to finish his career in uniform.

Little played in nine games before he was suspended and averaged 6.2 points per game.

Kansas next plays Wednesday at Iowa State.