UCLA looks into Muhammad's Gucci backpack

UCLA freshman guard Shabazz Muhammad could, once again, find himself in another NCAA-related investigation.
 
Muhammad was seen leaving the McKale Center on Thursday night following UCLA's 84-73 win wearing a Gucci backpack, Yahoo! reported.
 
The backpack is thought to be worth close to $1,000, which has caused quite a stir due to NCAA rules prohibiting student athletes to receive improper benefits.
 
However, Muhammad's sister, tennis pro, Asia said via Twitter the backpack was a gift from her and his mother for Muhammad's birthday.

When asked about the backpack on Friday afternoon, UCLA head coach Ben Howland said the school will do an investigation.

"Our compliance is handling it," Howland said on Friday. "They're very professional and we're aware of the situation."

When asked if the situation was blown out of proportion, Howland refused to give his take.

"I don't even want to give an opinion," Howland said.

As a result of an NCAA investigation into his recruitment, Muhammad had to sit the first three games of the season for the Bruins and required to pay back $1,600 after receiving improper benefits during unofficial visits he took while in high school.

With a clean slate, Muhammad has helped guide UCLA to a 16-4 record, including winning six of seven games in Pac-12 play.

The Bruins went on a 10-game win streak earlier this season and have twice defeated top-10 teams, while Muhammad has stepped into the role as the team's leading scorer.
 
He scored 23 points in the win on Thursday night at Arizona.