Memphis freshman Matt Simpkins is transferring.
“This is a decision that Matt came to after talking with his family and me,” said Memphis coach Josh Pastner. “We wish Matt the best as he continues his academic and athletic pursuits at another school. If there is anything I can do to help Matt in this process, I will do so to assist him in having a smooth transition.”
Simpkins, a 6-foot-9, 215-pound forward who was cleared to play on Dec. 4, saw action in 14 games and averaged 1.4 points and 1.5 rebounds.
The Oakland, Calif., native was a national top-75 recruit coming out of high school. In his final prep year at The Patterson School in Lenoir, N.C., Simpkins averaged 17.2 points, 11.4 rebounds and 5.1 blocks. He helped lead the Bulldogs to an overall record of 32-2 in 2007-08.
TYUS STAYING AT FLORIDA
Florida center Alex Tyus said he will return for his junior season.
“The University of Florida is where I want to be,” Tyus said in a statement released by Florida on Tuesday. “I truly feel this is the best place for me to continue to grow and improve and I look forward to this upcoming season.”
Tyus initially said he was transferring on April 17, but then changed his mind. The 6-foot-8 Tyus started all 36 games and was the Gators’ second-leading scorer (12.5 ppg) and leading rebounder (6.2).
With the return of Tyus, Florida could have as many as four starters returning next season if sophomore point guard Nick Calathes withdraws from the NBA Draft.
(Photos courtesy Memphis, Gainesville.com)
