Jan. 12, 2003

Columbia, Mo.- Sophomore Najeeb Echols will leave the Missouri Basketball team, head coach Quin Snyder announced on Sunday. Echols transfer is effective immediately.

"Najeeb has been an integral part of our program the past two years," Snyder said. "He has competed and given a great effort and has persevered through several injuries since he has been at Mizzou. He wants to be in a situation where he can be successful and is close to family and friends. We wish him nothing but the best. "

Echols averaged 2.7 points and 2.7 rebounds while at Mizzou.