Kentucky freshman guard Alex Legion wants to transfer and informed coach Billy Gillispie of his decision on Monday night.
"It's unfortunate and not what I wanted to hear, but I understand," Gillispie said, according a statement released by the school.
"We met with Alex and his mother Friday, and she informed us of her desire to seek a release for her son. Shortly after that meeting, Alex told me that he still wanted to be a part of our program. He played in the game against North Carolina Saturday and seemed happy when I spoke with him Sunday."
On the way back from the funeral services for former Wildcats greats Ralph Beard and Tommy Kron, Gillispie learned that Legion had not attended Monday afternoon's practice. Legion told him of his decision later that evening.
"You always hate to lose a valued member of your program, and Alex was definitely that. He has tremendous potential as a player and a student, but most importantly, he is a wonderful young man. We hate to see him leave, but if he can be happier elsewhere then all you can do is wish him the best."
Legion has played in all six games this season, starting twice. He averaged 6.7 points per game.
Legion, a native of Inkster, Mich., originally signed with Michigan but was released from his national letter of intent when Tommy Amaker was fired by the school.