North Carolina will not seek reinstatement for P.J. Hariston.

Roy Williams described the decision as "probably the most difficult and saddest thing I've gone through as a head coach."

Hairston and his family released a statement through an attorney Friday afternoon that said UNC's decision did not sit well with them.

"We are displeased with the University of North Carolina's decision not to submit the necessary paperwork to the NCAA requesting to have P.J. reinstated," the statement said. "This process has been long, and for (it) to end without having a final decision from the governing body is a shame. Ultimately this affects P.J., and his eligibility to play Division 1 colligate (sic) basketball for the remainder of this season, as well as next season."

Hairston had been practicing with UNC and has been on the bench for every home game. Williams previously noted he had been "the most dominating player on the perimeter in practice that I've ever coached."