It is my understanding that Lon asked to walk on, with a promise to give him the first available scholarship. Apparently, we didn't (for sure) have a scholarship available at the time, but thought we were going to have one.
Rotnei needed a scholarship, didn't have the money to pay his way or didn't want to do that, and just selected his "second" choice because they could and did guarantee a schollie.
There was a lot of talk about different situations, but the above is what I was told. And, I didn't talk to a family member, but supposedly someone who did.
In any event, it worked out pretty good for everyone. I love watching the kid play, and think if he was a couple inches taller or more athletic, he could and would play in the league. He is one of the purest "open" shooters I've ever seen. If he has a clean look, he is as reliable shooter as there is, just doesn't create well at the college level. I would love to have him and he adds a lot to a team.