SYRACUSE, N.Y. � Syracuse guard Eric Devendorf is appealing a suspension imposed by a university judicial hearing board after he allegedly hit a female student in the face.

Devendorf's attorney William Sullivan said Wednesday that based on the facts and circumstances, an indefinite suspension was inappropriate.

The suspension is put on hold during the appeal process, and Devendorf can still attend classes and play basketball.

The spring semester begins Jan. 12, and the appeals board, composed of two faculty or staff members and one student, must issue its decision by that day.

Sullivan said he also was prepared to file a petition with state Supreme Court if Devendorf, 21, of Bay City, Mich., is not satisfied with the outcome of the appeal.