Charles Matthews transferring from Kentucky (UPDATED)

Breaking news: KSR is hearing that forward Charles Matthews is transferring from Kentucky. The move will likely be announced by the school today.

In his freshman season, Matthews averaged 1.7 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 10.3 minutes per game. Towards the end of the season, he was hampered by a hip injury, for which he had a minor procedure a few weeks ago. The 6’6″ Chicago native picked Kentucky over Illinois, Kansas, Marquette, and Michigan State, committing on February 26, 2014.

According to our source, Matthews wants the opportunity to be more of a scorer rather than the energy guy Calipari and staff saw him as. To be clear, we’re hearing that Calipari did want Matthews to return for his sophomore season.

UPDATE (10:20 a.m.): UK just made the news official, announcing that Matthews will be granted a full release with no restrictions.

“The hardest thing as a coach is to lose a player that you really want to coach,” Calipari said. “In Charles’ case, I believe he is going to be a productive college player who has the ability to play at the next level. I know Charles’ best basketball is ahead of him, and while I’m a saddened to see him go, I support his decision and will help in any way I can.

“It hasn’t happened very often in my career, but transferring is a part of our game. It doesn’t change who we are as a program. We will support every kid in whatever way we can to make sure they can pursue their dreams, because ultimately that’s all I want for these young men.”

Matthews said the decision to leave was difficult, but Kentucky will always hold a special place in his heart.

“I want to thank the coaches, my teammates and the Big Blue Nation for all of their support this season,” Matthews said. “I gained great experience during my freshman year at Kentucky. This was a difficult decision for me, but at the end of the day I felt like it was in my best interest to explore other options. I appreciate the support Coach Cal has given me in making this decision and the commitment the coaching staff made to me for this past season and beyond. Kentucky will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Best of luck to Charles as he moves forward in the next chapter of his life.