Crawford decides to leave Kentucky

After meeting with Kentucky coach Tubby Smith on Monday afternoon,

Joe Crawford has decided to leave the program and intends to transfer to another school. The 6-foot-4, 205-pound shooting guard from Renaissance High School in Detroit, Mich., was averaging 3.8 points and 2.4 rebounds in 13.3 minutes a game throughout the first 12 games of his career.

"We are certainly disappointed that Joe has chosen to transfer," Smith said. "He has been given his release (to talk to other schools). We want to wish him the best wherever he decides to continue this collegiate career and his college studies. Certainly, we wish we had more time…but he's a kid that will do well wherever he goes.

"Whenever someone leaves, in most situations, it's an opportunity for someone else to step up and contribute," he added. "I know we have a lot of guys that are eager to play and we certainly need to have their energy and enthusiasm."

Crawford has originally given a commitment to Michigan back on February 1, 2003. It appeared that the No. 2 ranked shooting guard in the class of 2004 would in fact honor his commitment and become a member of the Wolverine family. However, Crawford decided to re-open his recruitment during the July evaluation period.

Aside from Kentucky and Michigan, Crawford had expressed an interest in Cincinnati, Clemson, Illinois, Michigan State and Oregon.