Connecticut’s depth next season took a small hit when sophomore forward Jamal Coombs-McDaniel announced Thursday he intends to transfer.
The 6-7 wing wasn’t a starter, but played all 41 games for the champion Huskies and averaged 5.6 points an outing. He showed flashes – his 64-point surge in February helped UConn when their offense was faltering – but never quite seemed to find his niche.
As Mike Anthony writes as the Hartford Courant, it seemed his production was usually tied to his happiness. And Coombs-McDaniel wasn’t always happy. Also not helping? A recent arrest for marijuana possession.
He would’ve been in the mix to start next season, but nothing was guaranteed. And that was also a significant factor.
“Jamal and I met recently and, although he loves the program, he would like more playing time,” coach Jim Calhoun said in a statement. “He and I both agree that he may have more opportunity for that playing time in another program. He was a very important part of our national championship this season and I know he is capable of great success in the future.
We wish Jamal the best of luck athletically and academically wherever he decides to continue his college career.”
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