F Weigh leaves Utah program

Jan 17, 2008 - 11:53 PM SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (Ticker) - Sophomore forward Stephen Weigh is leaving the Utah basketball team to play professionally in his native Australia.

Weigh announced his decision Thursday, which came eight days after he suffered a knee injury in an 83-64 victory over Dixie State.

"While I have appreciated and enjoyed the opportunity to attend the University of Utah and play for the basketball team, I have decided to return home to Australia and play professionally," Weigh said. "This was a tough decision, but I believe it will be the best thing for me and my family. I do want to make it clear that I have no intention of transferring or playing college basketball for another school."

Weigh averaged 4.4 points and 1.4 rebounds in 11 games this season, including four starts. He did not play in Wednesday night's loss at San Diego State.

"I'm very disappointed that Stephen is no longer going to be part of our program," Utah coach Jim Boylen said. "Stephen and his family decided this was the best course of action for his future. Stephen has been one of my guys since I took over this program and I support my guys. We'll miss him, but we wish him the best for his future."

The 6-6 Weigh, who played in 29 games as a freshman, averaged 4.8 points in his two seasons with the Runnin' Utes.