Walton Is Accused in Candy Caper
TUCSON — Arizona is investigating an accusation that standout forward Luke Walton was a lookout while other players stole money and candy from a hotel vending machine.
A guest saw men wearing jackets of the No. 1-ranked Wildcats grab up to 80 candy bars and change from the machine in Lawrence, Kan., over the weekend, police Lt. Dave Cobb said Wednesday.
The man, Stuart Schwartz of Chicago, identified Walton but said he wasn’t sure about the identities of the other players, he told police.
The Marriott Spring Hill Suites decided not to press charges, but the school’s athletic department is investigating and could punish the players.
Coach Lute Olson called the accusations “a bunch of hogwash,” and Walton denied involvement.
After Arizona (15-1) overcame a 20-point deficit to defeat Kansas, 91-74, Saturday, police surprised the coaching staff by entering the locker room to talk to players.
Hotel manager Stephanie Bowler said the team gave her $80 for the candy before returning home and that she considered the matter closed.
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