Sophomore forward Ricky Doyle has been granted release from the Michigan basketball team and will transfer, the team announced Tuesday afternoon.
Doyle will have two seasons of eligibility left elsewhere after he sits out for the 2016-17 season due to NCAA transfer rules.
“My time at Michigan has (been) very special to me and my family,” Doyle said in a press release. “Coach Beilein took a chance on me and I will forever be grateful for that. It was a difficult decision for me to make, however, I just feel this is the best decision moving forward. I will forever carry a special place in my heart for the Maize and Blue. Go Blue!”
The big man started 11 games this season and played in all 34. Junior forward Mark Donnal started at center in early 2015, but soon after, Doyle earned the starting spot. Donnal ultimately earned the position back after having a breakout performance against Illinois to kick off the Big Ten season.
Doyle averaged 3.8 points, two boards and two assists during his sophomore season.
“Ricky is a tremendous young man with very high character and plenty of potential to develop into being a fine college player,” Beilein said in a press release. “We have enjoyed coaching him over the past two years and wish him nothing but the best.”
The announcement comes just a day after news broke that senior guard Spike Albrecht would transfer to another school to use his final year of eligibility. Even with the absence of senior guard Caris LeVert and Albrecht, the Wolverines were short one scholarship for its overcapacity 2016-17 class that includes the arrival of four freshmen. With Doyle’s departure, the roster will now be able to accommodate the new arrivals.