After being suspended indefinitely last week for violating the team code of conduct, Sidiki Johnson has officially left the program. A freshman out of the Bronx, Johnson had struggled comprehending the team concept at the college level and his schoolwork suffered as well. Coach Miller gave him every chance to reclaim his spot on the roster, but the 19-year old packed his bags on Saturday evening and will not return to Tucson.
"University of Arizona head men's basketball coach Sean Miller today announced that Sidiki Johnson has left the program with the intention of transferring to another institution.
Johnson, a 6-foot-8, 235-pound, freshman forward from the Bronx, N.Y., has made three appearances for the Wildcats this season.
The Wildcats (6-2) return to action on Wednesday, Dec. 7, at 10th-ranked Florida. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST and can be seen nationally on ESPN."
Going forward, the departure of Johnson gives Miller and the coaching staff some flexibility on the recruiting trail. With two forwards (Brandon Ashley, Grant Jerrett), a center (Kaleb Tarczewski) and just one guard (Gabe York) committed for 2012, expect to hear the name Amedeo Della Valle a lot in the coming months. The 6'4 combo guard recently came over from Europe and has starred at basketball powerhouse Findlay Prep alongside Ashley.
Best of luck wherever you go, Sidiki. We hardly knew 'ye, but this move is probably for the best.
For more on the Wildcats, check out AZ Desert Swarm.