UCLA freshman Shabazz Muhammad, out since Oct. 25 with a shoulder strain, is participating in practice and is “real close” to a full return coach Ben Howland said Tuesday.

However, a lingering NCAA investigation could still keep him out even though his shoulder might be healed enough to play the season opener on Friday.

“Physically, there is a possibility for sure,” Howland said.

via Peter Yoon of ESPN Los Angeles