Maryland men’s basketball freshman Micah Thomas will transfer from the program, the school announced Wednesday. The 6-foot-7 forward redshirted last season, practicing with the team though he didn’t play in games.
With Thomas’ departure and guard Melo Trimble declaring for the NBA Draft earlier Wednesday, the Terps have two scholarships available for next year.
“I want to thank Coach [Mark] Turgeon and the staff for providing me an opportunity to play at the University of Maryland,” Thomas said. “I grew personally and learned a lot both on and off the court. However, I feel it is in my best interest both academically and athletically to pursue another opportunity.”
Thomas, a three-star recruit from Huntington Prep, committed to Maryland last March, joining guards Anthony Cowan and Kevin Huerter and forwards Justin Jackson and Josh Tomaic in the 2016 recruiting class.
[Read more: Maryland star Melo Trimble declares for the NBA Draft and will hire an agent]
Cowan, Huerter and Jackson made immediate contributions. Starting almost every game, the freshman trio helped Maryland to a third straight NCAA tournament appearance this past season. They combined to average 30.1 points and each played at least 27 minutes per game.
But Turgeon thought it was best to redshirt Thomas and Tomaic. So, after starring at the West Virginia prep school last year, Thomas watched from the sidelines as three other first-year players guided Maryland to a 24-9 record.
“We appreciate Micah’s contributions to our basketball program over the past year,” Turgeon said. “We wish him the very best as he continues on with his collegiate career.”
