[OSUBasketballJunkie]

DDN

1/28/06

Ohio State pulls back offer to wide receiver

Chichester has set several records at Lakota West

By John Boyle
Cox News Service
WEST CHESTER | Lakota West High School's two-sport standout Josh Chichester confirmed Friday that he is not headed to Ohio State.

The 6-foot-8, 210-pound senior wide receiver committed to the Buckeyes in June after his performance at OSU's football camp. He also was planning to walk on to the basketball team.

But a report Thursday on ohiostate.scout.com — a Web site dedicated to OSU recruiting — said the Buckeyes have pulled their scholarship offer because of academic concerns.

Chichester, who was preparing for the Firebirds' basketball game Friday against Princeton, declined to comment on the specifics behind OSU's decision.

"At first it was disappointing," Chichester said. "Then I just thought maybe it wasn't meant to be. There's nothing to be upset about. It's what they do."

OSU coaches are unable to comment on prospective recruits until they sign a national letter of intent. The signing period begins Wednesday.

Chichester caught 36 passes for 726 yards and seven touchdowns last season. He was first-team, All-Greater Miami Conference player and second-team, All-Southwest District.

Chichester set several Lakota West records, including receptions in a season (36) and career (94); yards in a season (734) and career (1,793), and touchdowns in a season (11) and career (21). He also averages 12.1 points and 7.4 rebounds for the Firebirds' basketball team, which is ranked No. 7 in the state.