Suspended in early October for violating unspecified team rules, Finn will return to practice today bringing with him much-needed leadership for a young Xavier team.

"This team will welcome him back with open arms," said Xavier coach Sean Miller who made both decisions for implementing and lifting Finn's suspension. "Dedrick is our most experienced player. When you pick a team around the country that takes the most experienced player away, like we've had right now, clearly we're not going to be operating at the level we would have."

Xavier sports information director Tom Eiser said Finn would not be available for media interviews until Tuesday.

Without Finn, Xavier's backcourt has been awash in inexperience with three first-year players burdened with running the team while learning a new system. Miller expects that Finn's return will restore some normalcy to team while also contributing to the development of those younger guards.

Miller suspended Finn indefinitely in a statement issued Oct. 4, and Finn did not accompany the team on its exhibition trip to the Bahamas Oct. 6-10. He has, however, attended practices as an observer since practice resumed Oct. 16.

According to Miller, Finn has fulfilled the requirements necessary to return to the team in full capacity.

"It was nothing special other than do things the right way and show great support," Miller said. "Be at every practice, be on time and academically do a great job."

E-mail ddow@enquirer.com

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