Missouri's Jakeenan Gant set to transfer after release granted
Jakeenan Gant has been granted his release from Missouri and will transfer out of the program, looking to land somewhere closer to home to be near his ailing mother.
"Jakeenan and I sat down to discuss his future with Missouri Basketball," coach Kim Anderson said in a statement. "At that time and several other times, he confirmed his commitment to our program. In the past few weeks, his mother has developed a medical condition that necessitates his return closer to home to continue his educational and athletic pursuits."
The sophomore forward appeared in 30 contests with the Tigers last season, averaging 5.1 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. The Georgia native came to Missouri as a highly touted recruit in the 2014 class, ranked 53rd in the country by ESPN.
"I'll miss Columbia, but feel the need to make a move with my family and mother in mind," Gant said. "I want nothing but the best for Mizzou in the future and appreciate the friendships I've made in my time here."
Gant is the sixth Tiger to leave the program from last year's team, joining Tramaine Isabell, Namon Wright, and D'Angelo Allen in transferring. Senior forward Ryan Rosburg graduated and Wes Clark was dismissed from the team in mid-February.
As per NCAA transfer regulations, Gant will be forced to sit out the 2016-17 season before becoming eligible the following year.