Arizona lost its second-leading scorer Monday when guard MoMo Jones opted to transfer from the Wildcat basketball program.
The Wildcats' starting point guard, Jones averaged 9.7 points and 2.4 assists per game. He cited family reasons for transferring to a school that has yet to be named.
"I would like to thank my coaches, my teammates and all of the U of A fans for making my two years at Arizona very special," said Jones, a native of New York. "After much thought, I have decided to pursue my goals at a school closer to home. My desire to be closer to my family, and in particular my grandmother, is the reason I am transferring. I want it to be known that I love this program, my coaches and teammates. I appreciate everyone for supporting me through this tough time."
Jones was facing the possibility of reduced time or a different role next season, with heralded point guard prospect Josiah Turner arriving as a freshman. But coach Sean Miller had discussed using a three-guard lineup, presumably with Jones as a big factor.
In UA's release Monday, Miller said personal reasons drove the decision.
"This spring MoMo expressed to me his desire to be closer to home while continuing his life as a student-athlete," Miller said. "After considering this for several weeks this spring, he's decided to leave our program. Β He did a great job in his two years here and helped us win a Pac-10 championship this past season. We wish him great success in the future."
Jones arrived in June 2009 as part of Miller's first recruiting class at Arizona. He had signed a letter-of-intent to play for USC but was let out of it after then-Trojans coach Tim Floyd left in the wake of NCAA issues.
In his two-year career, Jones appeared in 68 games (39 starts). He posted career averages of 8.3 points, 1.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game, while shooting 41.8 percent from the field (208-of-498).
According to the UA, Jones leaves the program in good academic standing, so his departure will cause only minimal damage to the team's Academic Progress Rating.
