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Carlwell to leave Illini program

Posted by: Paul Klee

Wednesday, February 20, 2008 3:14 PM

Sophomore Brian Carlwell has left the Illinois basketball program, the UI will announce in a press release today. Coach Bruce Weber is expected to address Carlwell's decision after the Illinois-Wisconsin game tonight at the Assembly Hall. A 6-11 center from Maywood, Carlwell is expected to finish the semester at Illinois before pursuing a transfer to another school.

Due to injuries and coaches decisions, Carlwell has not played in 32 of 61 games since he arrived at Illinois. He sustained a knee injury on the final day of November and hasn't played since. Carlwell said late last week he expects to apply for a medical redshirt for this season. If he is granted a hardship waiver, he would have three seasons of eligibility remaining. A popular teammate, Carlwell, whose freshman season ended prematurely after he was involved in a car accident last February, is expected to attend the game tonight.

(Edited to add)

Bruce Weber said in a press release:

"Brian has faced adversity and dealt with injuries during much of his time here and feels it is in his best interest to get a fresh start next season," Weber said. "We appreciate the contribution he has made to our program and wish him the best, and we will support him in any we can regarding his future at another university."

Brian Carlwell said in a press release:

"I'd like to thank the University of Illinois and the coaches for the opportunity I have had here, along with the fans and most of all my teammates for their support these last two years," Carlwell said. "The close friendships I have with my teammates has made this a very difficult decision for me. I am going to miss these guys, but I feel this decision is what is right for me at this time. I want to show my teammates the same support that they've given me, so I will continue to come to Assembly Hall and cheer them on as I finish the semester in good academic standing."

Paul
pklee@news-gazette.com