UK’s Charles Matthews granted release; will transfer

LEXINGTON, Ky. – UK men’s basketball head coach John Calipari announced on Wednesday that freshman guard/forward Charles Matthews will transfer from UK on a full release with no restrictions.

“The hardest thing as a coach is to lose a player that you really want to coach,” Calipari said. “In Charles’ case, I believe he is going to be a productive college player who has the ability to play at the next level. I know Charles’ best basketball is ahead of him, and while I’m a saddened to see him go, I support his decision and will help in any way I can.

Matthews was one of four Wildcats to play in all 36 games for UK during the 2015-16 season. He averaged 1.7 points and 1.6 rebounds in helping the Wildcats claim the Southeastern Conference regular-season and tournament championships.

“I want to thank the coaches, my teammates and the Big Blue Nation for all of their support this season,” Matthews said. “I gained great experience during my freshman year at Kentucky. This was a difficult decision for me, but at the end of the day I felt like it was in my best interest to explore other options. I appreciate the support Coach Cal has given me in making this decision and the commitment the coaching staff made to me for this past season and beyond. Kentucky will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Matthews’ season highlights included a career-high 11-point performance vs. South Florida and a seven-point, five-rebound effort in the home victory over Georgia. He started three games and finished the year with 370 minutes played.