Jeff Taylor breaks silence, apologizes for role in domestic violence case

Just days after the NBA handed Jeff Taylor a 24-game suspension, the Hornets swingman came forward to issue a statement about his role in a domestic violence charge that occurred in September. Taylor pleaded guilty to the charge on October 29. You can read more about the incident here.

Taylor described his suspension as appropriate, and apologized to the woman involved in the incident, the fans and the Hornets organization. He will respect the NBA's request to partake in an outpatient alcohol treatment program in addition to performing 80 hours of community service. He has already begun the treatment, and said he has stopped drinking altogether.

While Taylor apologized and seemed sincere in his statements, he was not willing to discuss the incident with media. He said he had discussed the matter with general manager Rich Cho, but had not spoken with Hornets owner Michael Jordan yet.

If Taylor follows through with the NBA's requests, he is eligible to return to the court December 17 against the Phoenix Suns. The team has sorely missed his size and athleticism on the wing, especially with Michael Kidd-Gilchrist recovering from injury.