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MJ Accepts Suspension

January 27, 2011 - Premier Basketball League (PBL)
Rochester RazorSharks News Release


After spending the better part of two days in a Wyoming County jail, Marlin Johnson finds himself in professional basketball limbo. The Rochester RazorSharks have suspended the Franklin High School and Monroe Community College grad indefinitely, pending the outcome of his case.

Johnson was charged with DWI and driving with a suspended license. He has a February 7th court date in Warsaw. A four year veteran and member of two Premier Basketball League championship teams in Rochester, Johnson spoke with coach Rod Baker Thursday morning.

"I apologized to him, the organization, friends, family and the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester for embarrassing them," said Johnson. Marlin has been an activist in support of the fight against breast cancer, which has touched his family. Johnson routinely wears pink basketball shoes.

"From a franchise perspective, it was in everyone's best interests that we suspend Marlin," said Baker. "We will revisit the situation once this gets cleared up."

The team's action is, "very acceptable," according to Johnson. "This is a major distraction for the team. There has to be a consequence. I'll call the guys and wish them luck."

Despite his local roots and four years with the team, Johnson's basketball future with the RazorSharks is tenuous. He is 35 years old and on the downside of his career. If he is successful putting his legal troubles behind him, Johnson has to earn his way back on the court.

"I just need the opportunity. The rest will take care of itself. I believe everybody deserves redemption, The door being open is enough for me."

As for his current situation, Johnson asks only that people not judge him too harshly.

"I'm not a bad guy," he said. "For those who have interacted with me, judge me on that. Not on a bad decision."

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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