UConn Huskies: Coombs-McDaniel to leave hoops team

VERNON, Conn. - against Connecticut Jamal Coombs-McDaniel, who had been recently arrested on drug charges, of plans to transfer the national champion Huskies, the school said Thursday.

Streeter Lecka/Getty ImagesJamal Coombs-McDaniel, which the court case has been delayed until May 19, wants more playing time and experience with UConn Huskies to get it.

UConn Huskies coach Jim Calhoun has announced in a press release, hours after the second year of the District of Dorchester in Boston had an appearance in court on charges of marijuana postponed.

"Jamal and I met recently and, although he loves the program, he would like to game time," said Calhoun. "And I agree both that he may have more opportunities for this game time in another program.".

Calhoun did not mention the legal problems of Coombs-McDaniel. Prior to the 6-foot-7 was arrested April 21 on the campus and charged with two offences, possession of marijuana and possession of drugs.

Police said that he and two others were found with 5.6 grams of marijuana, marijuana a grinder and a packet of cigars who smoke marijuana.

Coombs-McDaniel briefly met with prosecutors Thursday and his case was continued until May 19. He told journalists at the Palace of justice he would speak to them after his appearance, but aborts while they were in the waiting room for the case to be called.

Coombs-McDaniel played in 41 all UConn Huskies games during his national championship season and started twice. He registered 5.6 and 2.7 rebounds.

"It was a very important part of our national championship this season and I know is capable of great success in the future", said Calhoun. "We want Jamal better sporting chance and academically research he decided to continue his academic career.".

His departure opens a scholarship of Calhoun, which has already lost one due to NCAA recruiting violations and expected to lose at least one more later this month when the program's academic performance ratings are released.

To avoid a penalty, the team must score at least a 925 on the APR, which measures the rate of performance and graduation of four-year University. Last year, the team scored 930, including a 844 for the season 2008-09.

Calhoun, who also faces a suspension of three games next season for NCAA violations, said that it has not yet decided if he will return to UConn Huskies or to retire. He said he will make this decision some time this summer, but has no real timetable.