For the second time in less than a week, the UCLA men’s basketball team has announced that one of its players is leaving the program.
Junior center Joshua Smith left the program and was granted an immediate release from UCLA.
“Joshua is a fine young man who has meant a lot to this program,” said UCLA coach Ben Howland. “I know I speak for myself and my staff when I thank him for his time in Westwood and wish him well in his future endeavors.”
Smith averaged just 5.2 points and 4.2 rebounds per game in 13.5 minutes played so far this season, which were all below his career averages so far at UCLA.
During his time at UCLA, Smith, a former McDonald’s All-American, battled weight and conditioning issues that were never fully resolved.
“I have made the decision to leave the program for personal reasons,” Smith said. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at UCLA and am grateful for the opportunity that has been presented to me here.”
UCLA has only eight scholarship players left on its roster, four of them freshmen.
Compiled by Jacob Ruffman, Bruin Sports senior staff.