Skip to content

Malik Newman to transfer from Mississippi State

Wesley Hitt / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Malik Newman withdrew from the 2016 NBA Draft last week, but he will not return to Mississippi State, as the star freshman will transfer out of the program.

"I appreciate all of Malik's hard work, and I wish him the very best moving forward," head coach Ben Howland said in a statement. "I want nothing but the best for Malik and his family."

The 6-foot-3, 175-pound guard's decision to stay close to home and play for the Bulldogs was huge news for the program. Newman was a five-star recruit and ranked as the top shooting guard in the country by ESPN.

Newman's lone season with Howland and Mississippi State produced mixed results. He averaged 11.3 points in 27.7 minutes, battling injuries throughout.

After originally declaring for the draft, Newman withdrew, but his father announced a transfer was a possibility. After a week of consideration, Newman and his family decided that is the best option.

As per NCAA transfer regulations, Newman will be forced to sit out next season should he land at another Division I program.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox