Missouri team won't practice until student ends hunger strike

As a Missouri student continued his hunger strike in protest of the university's president, athletic officials expressed concern for his health and said players do not plan to practice until he resumes eating.

Athletic director Mack Rhoades and coach Gary Pinkel released a statement Sunday afternoon, "Our focus right now is on the health of Jonathan Butler, the concerns of our student-athletes and working with our community to address this serious issue. After meeting with the team this morning, it is clear they do not plan to return to practice until Jonathan resumes eating."

Butler is a graduate student who has been on a hunger strike since Monday seeking Wolfe's removal. “I already feel like campus is an unlivable space,” Butler, who is African American, told the Washington Post on Thursday. “So it’s worth sacrificing something of this grave amount, because I’m already not wanted here. I’m already not treated like I’m a human.”

Rhodes and Pinkel said in Sunday's statement that they continue to meet with department, campus and student leaders. They will have further comment Monday afternoon. The team is scheduled to play BYU on Saturday in Kansas City.

Earlier in the day, Pinkel tweeted out his support for his protesting players, "The Mizzou family stands as one. We are united. We are behind our players."

PHOTOS: Athletes make social, political statements