KT Harrell Leaves UVA Basketball Team

KT Harrell Leaving Virginia Basketball Program

Sophomore guard is planning to transfer

CHARLOTTESVILLE—Virginia men’s head basketball coach Tony Bennett announced on Friday (Dec. 23) that sophomore guard KT Harrell (Montgomery, Ala.) is leaving the Cavaliers’ program.

“I was informed by KT and his parents today (Friday, Dec. 23) that he is planning to transfer,” Bennett said. “I was disappointed by his decision to leave Virginia. I was hoping he would stay, but I appreciate his contributions to our program and wish him the best in the future.”

The 6-4 Harrell has played in all 11 of Virginia’s games this season and started the first five. He is averaging 4.7 points and 1.0 rebound a game, while shooting 31.5 percent (17-54) from the field and 70.0 percent (14-20) from the free-throw line.

“I’m grateful for my experience at Virginia and for my teammates and coaches,” Harrell said. “They were very kind and good to me. I wish them the best.”

As a freshman during the 2010-11 season, Harrell played in all 31 of Virginia’s games and started 15 of them. He averaged 8.0 points and 2.1 rebounds a game. Harrell shot 42.3 percent (91-215) from the field, including 42.1 percent (24-57) from three-point range, and 64.2 percent (43-67) from the free-throw line. 

I'm sad to see KTH leave, but it was clear that Malcolm Brogdon had overtaken him.  I think it's a real bummer that the kid couldn't find a way to finish out the season and then transfer, but it is what it is.

Bennett's 2010 recruiting class is now reduced to one star (Joe Harris), one solid role player (Akil Mitchell), and one giant red-headed question mark (James Johnson).  Attrition is a part of today's college basketball landscape, but Tony Bennett seems to experience more than his fair share... and it also seems like he owns that fact.  I guess Bennettball isn't for everyone.

NCAA Tournament or bust.

Best of luck, young man.  You will be missed.