Michigan's Aubrey Dawkins transfers to Central Florida

Michigan's Aubrey Dawkins has been granted his release from the program and will transfer to Central Florida to play for his father Johnny, who was recently hired by the Knights.

"This was not an easy decision, however, the chance to play for my father is a special opportunity for me and my family," Aubrey said. "Coach (John) Beilein and Michigan took a chance on me and that is something I will never forget."

While it certainly hurts the Wolverines program to lose a key bench player like Dawkins, Beilein can relate to the move. While coaching at West Virginia, the 63-year-old had the opportunity to have his son Patrick play under him.

"I was able to coach my son and see him grow as a person and player and it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," he said. "Aubrey is a wonderful and thoughtful young man who has a bright future in front of him."

Dawkins started 22 games in two seasons with Michigan, averaging 6.7 points and 2.3 rebounds per contest. Per NCAA transfer regulations, he will be forced to sit out the 2016-17 season before becoming eligible the following year.