Oklahoma F Dante Buford has been suspended for the first three games of the 2016-17 season for receiving an extra benefit in exchange for one of his complimentary NCAA Tournament tickets last season, OU announced Saturday.
"Dante received an extra benefit for one of his complimentary tickets during last season's NCAA Tournament. As a consequence, the NCAA has ruled him ineligible for the first three games of the season," OU coach Lon Kruger said in a statement.
Buford, a sophomore, averaged 12.3 minutes and 3.5 points per game last season.
Oklahoma begins its regular season Sunday against Northwestern State at home.