Cole Bajema will miss Washington’s game against USC after being hit with a one-game suspension.

The Pac-12 announced the suspension for Bajema Friday evening. Per the announcement, the suspension stems from an incident in Thursday’s UCLA game when Bajema “made “significant contact” to “the groin area” of a Bruin player during action late in the first half.”

Now, Washington coach Mike Hopkins and AD Jen Cohen and coach Mike Hopkins have released a joint statement to address the suspension. The statement expressed disappointment at the conference’s decision to suspend Bajema and showed support for the player’s character.

“We were surprised and are extremely disappointed with the decision to suspend Cole Bajema for our game Saturday at USC,” the statement from Hopkins and Cohen reads. “Cole has demonstrated character and sportsmanship during his three years competing in the Pac-12. We stand in support of Cole and look forward to him returning to the court next week.”

Bajema is a big loss for Washington in Saturday’s game, but USC will also be shorthanded in the game. Joshua Morgan, a star big man for the Trojans averaging over 2 blocks per game, will miss the contest with an injury.

Saturday’s game is set for 9:30 pm ET on FS1.

(H/T The Seattle Times)