NCAA denies South Carolina's waiver to let Cooper play

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) The NCAA has denied South Carolina's petition to have Tennessee transfer Te'a Cooper play immediately instead of sitting out this season.

The school was informed by governing body Thursday that Cooper could not play until next season. Cooper is a 5-foot-8 guard from Powder Springs, Georgia. She transferred to the Gamecocks this summer after sitting last year with the Lady Vols because of an injury.

South Carolina believed Cooper's year on the bench injured should not keep her off the court this season as NCAA transfer rules require. South Carolina did not receive a reason for the denial, according to a team spokeswoman.

Cooper made the Southeastern Conference's all-freshman team in 2015-16. She will have two years of eligibility with the Gamecocks.