SEC denies Pickett's appeal to transfer to S.C.

COLUMBIA, S.C. - The Southeastern Conference denied a South Carolina basketball recruit&#39;s appeal to transfer from a community college on Wednesday. <br> <br> Tim Pickett had been ineligible to enroll at South Carolina this fall under a Southeastern Conference rule regarding junior-college transfers. That ruling was upheld by the conference&#39;s executive committee. <br> <br> Coach Dave Odom called the situation unfortunate and regrettable. <br> <br> ``We explored every conceivable avenue that might lead to his matriculation to USC, but it just wasn&#39;t meant to be,&#39;&#39; Odom said. ``We&#39;re disappointed that this ruling will prevent Tim from coming to Carolina.&#39;&#39; <br> <br> Conference rules require a person attending a junior college to complete at least three consecutive semesters at the person&#39;s last school before transferring. <br> <br> Pickett recently completed his second semester at Indian River Community College after going to Daytona Beach Community College as a freshman. Both schools are in Florida.