Rebels’ Epps missing

Monday, Nov. 1, 1999 | 10:38 a.m.

SUN STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS

There were several theories floating around UNLV's North Gym on Sunday as to why Issiah Epps skipped practice. There weren't, however, many concrete answers.

Epps, the tallest player on the team at 6-10 and one of two seniors, hastily left practice on Saturday and did not return on Sunday.

Head coach Bill Bayno said Epps missed practice due to personal reasons and that he expected the problem to be resolved today.

Several players, including Epps' roommate, Sylvester Dotson, said they haven't seen Epps or spoken with him since Saturday's practice.

"I ain't talked to him since yesterday," Dickel said. "No one's talked to him."

One theory was that Epps quit the team, though Dickel and others discounted the claim.

"I don't think he did," Dickel said. "Anyone who knows him knows that he'll be back. I think he'll be back."

Added Bayno, "I really doubt that he quit. As I said, he missed practice for personal reasons and I think by tomorrow everything will be back to status quo."

In another development, the Rebels' Vince Booker remained sidelined with an ankle injury and is listed as day-to-day.

* The UNLV men's and women's basketball teams will be holding their version of Midnight Madness, Fan Jam, for fans Tuesday night at the Thomas & Mack Center. The event will feature a 3-point shooting contest, a slam dunk showcase and a scarlet & gray exhibition for both teams. Free posters will be given to the first 2,000 fans. The event will start at 7 p.m. and doors open at 6 p.m. Admission is free. -- Victoria Sun