Tyrone Appleton and Quintrell Thomas Seek to Transfer from Kansas Men's Basketball Team
April 9, 2009
LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas men’s basketball coach Bill Self announced Thursday that guard Tyrone Appleton and forward Quintrell Thomas are seeking to transfer following the spring 2009 semester.
“During our season-ending meetings, Tyrone and Quintrell discussed their roles with me and have expressed their interest to transfer,” Self said. “They have chosen to attend a university where they can have expanded roles.
“Tyrone and Quintrell played an integral part of our success in winning the Big 12 title and advancing to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 this past season,” Self added. “We, as a staff, know whoever gets them will be getting good, hardworking players. They have been fabulous young men, good teammates and solid ambassadors for the university.”
A junior from Gary, Ind., Appleton played in 21 games last season and averaged 2.2 minutes per contest. The 6-2 guard scored a season-high four points against New Mexico State on Dec. 3, and against Albany on Dec. 30. His most memorable game of the 2008-09 season came when he logged six minutes against North Dakota State in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament. Appleton transferred to Kansas from Midland (Texas) College following his sophomore season.
“Kansas has been a great experience, one that I will never forget,” Appleton said. “I enjoyed my teammates, coaches and the fans. I am just looking for more time on the court and don’t see it here. I want to be able to have a solid senior season.”
A freshman from Newark, N.J., Thomas appeared in 26 games last season and started the 2008-09 opener against UMKC. The 6-8 forward averaged 5.4 minutes, 1.5 points and 2.0 rebounds per game. Thomas scored a season-high 10 points against New Mexico State (Dec. 3) and had six games of four-plus rebounds, including seven against Florida Gulf Coast and New Mexico State.
“Kansas has been great with the fans, my teammates and the tradition,” Thomas said. “I think by transferring, I can find an expanded role elsewhere. I want to thank the basketball staff and administration for the opportunity to play at Kansas and nothing but good feelings toward the program.”
