Sophomore point guard Jai Lucas will be transferring from the program, UF coach Billy Donovan announced Wednesday afternoon.
Donovan said Lucas told him about his transferring at 1 p.m. today. The players were not yet informed of Lucas' decision.
"I feel bad because Jai's a great kid," Donovan said. "Any time a player leaves your program, you're always disappointed."
Donovan said Lucas did not feel comfortable at UF, and his departure is not an issue of playing time.
"Part of it was being far away from home and not feeling like it was the best fit for him," Donovan said. "That's the way he put it."
Lucas is still available to use the facilities in Gainesville until he leaves, which will probably be at the end of the semester, Donovan said. Senior Walter Hodge will replace Lucas in the starting lineup.
"I hate to see him go, but my biggest focus for him is I want to see him happy," Donovan said.
No players were available for comment Wednesday.
The Bellaire, Texas, native is a former McDonald's All-American who averaged 8.5 points per game for the Gators as a freshman last year.
