Nikki Teasley leads the Tar Heels in assists and steals and ranks second in scoring this season.

Teasley will remain on scholarship and is enrolled in classes this semester.

"This is not a disciplinary action," Hatchell said. "We're just trying to do what's best for Nikki and the team. At this point, there is no set timetable for her return."

Hatchell wouldn't address specifics of the situation.

"We appreciate the interest people have in our program," she said, "but we request that Nikki's privacy be respected."

Teasley played in UNC's first 12 games of the season, starting eight, but did not travel to Thursday's game at Virginia. The Cavs upset the Tar Heels 87-68. It was UNC's second straight loss after winning five consecutive games.

Teasley, who averaged 154. points and 4.7 rebounds per game last season, was named a preseason first-team All-American by Blue Ribbon and Women's Basketball News Service. She also was listed among the top 10 preseason Naismith Award candidates.

Teasley, who has battled chronic knee problems the past two seasons, ranked second on the team in scoring this season with a 14.0 average, and also was leading the Tar Heels in assists (5.8) and steals (2.4).

In the summer of 1997, Teasley captained the USA Junior World Games team to the gold medal.