Illinois: Smith Charged for Drinking, Driving and Ditching

Smith Charged for Drinking, Driving and Ditching: Illinois guard Jamar Smith, the driver in the accident that gave teammate Brian Carlwell a severe concussion earlier this month, was charged Tuesday with drunk driving and leaving the scene of an accident. Smith slammed his car into a tree and then proceeded to drive the damaged Lexus back to his apartment while Carlwell remained unconscious, police reported. Once he arrived, Smith entered the building, leaving the freshman center behind. Bystanders called 911. Illinois coach Bruce Weber said it was a case of “extremely poor judgement” by his player but that the Fighting Illini family would continue to offer support while the legal process takes place. Smith averaged 8.1 points per game for Illinois this year. Carlwell, a top recruit, is expected to make a full recovery. [2/21/07]