Bragg removed from team

New Mexico Lobos head coach Paul Weir said in a statement on Sunday that senior center Carlton Bragg Jr. has been removed from the team following his arrest and charge with aggravated driving while intoxicated and possession of under one ounce of marijuana.

Bragg was arrested at a sobriety checkpoint at 1:21 a.m. in Albuquerque. The police report stated that Bragg “admitted drinking 2 glasses of wine between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m.”

Weir’s statement: “This morning I became aware of an incident involving Carlton Bragg. Based on what I know at this time, I will be removing him from the team. My hope is that he can find increased time and attention to heed to his personal well-being. My sole purpose going forward is to support Carlton in his health and growth as a young man. The game of life is much more important than basketball right now. I still believe in him and hope this next step will allow him to develop into a strong, responsible young adult while also completing his degree here at UNM. I am rooting that this next chapter is his best one yet.”

Bragg was an integral part of the Lobos team, averaging 12.6 points and 10.3 rebounds per game in the 15 games he had played for the Lobos this season. He had 11 points and seven rebounds in the win over Air Force on Saturday, a game which the Lobos won 84-78.

The Air Force game was Bragg’s second back following a suspension that lasted three games. That suspension stemmed from an allegation that Bragg attempted to have sex with a woman against her will over the summer. Bragg has yet to be charged in that case.

Bragg participated in the commencement ceremonies at UNM in December, however he still needs one more class to earn his degree from New Mexico.