Sean Williams, who was suspended by the university and the team in May after being arrested for marijuana possession and underage drinking, was cleared to return to campus this morning by a judge in a Brighton, Mass., court.

He still needs to be cleared by the school academically and also take a physical, but it appears as though Williams could return as soon as Thursday for the No. 13 Eagles' home contest against Harvard.

Williams is the link that gives BC the most formidable frontcourt in the country. He's the ideal complement to All-American candidate Crag Smith and underrated forward Jared Dudley.

Williams, who is one of the top shot-blockers and interior defenders anywhere, will allow Smith and Dudley to move back to their natural positions — and will eventually allow sophomore John Oates to come off the bench.

"He's a phenomenal talent," UCLA coach Ben Howland said of Williams. "He's very active and is a force defensively and rebounding the ball."

Williams, 19, has been taking classes at the University of Houston this semester and working out with former NBA coach John Lucas and a contingent of unsigned pro players that includes Clarence Weatherspoon.

He only averaged 4.1 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.3 blocks last season, but he did it in a reserve role behind senior Nate Doornekamp.

"He'll be a very nice addition to their team," Lucas said. "He's got a great timing as a shot-blocker and if he continues to work, I don't see any reason why he can't be an NBA player."