Illini guard Jeff Jordan leaves basketball team

CHAMPAIGN - Jeff Jordan, a two-year reserve point guard, has decided not to return to the Illinois basketball program. Jordan, the oldest son of former Bulls star Michael Jordan, said he will continue his studies at the University of Illinois.

"I loved playing for the Fighting Illini and appreciate the support I was given by my teammates, coaches and the great fans here," Jordan said in a statement released by the university. "But I have come to the point where I'm ready to focus on life after basketball. I will concentrate on earning my degree from the University of Illinois and the opportunities that await upon graduating."

Jordan, a 6-foot-1, 185-pound guard who played at Loyola Academy, earned varsity letters each of the past two seasons. A preferred walk-on initially, Jordan received an athletic scholarship prior to the 2009 spring semester. He appeared in 59 career games, totaling 58 points, 42 assists and 24 rebounds.

The 20-year-old Jordan averaged 8.4 minutes as a sophomore after playing 5.3 minutes per game as a true freshman.

"Jeff was an invaluable member of our team the past two seasons and I thank him for his contribution to our program," coach Bruce Weber said. "He brought great work ethic to the gym and pushed himself, as well as his teammates, each and every day to improve. We will miss him, but we fully support the decision he has made. When the game of basketball has been a top priority throughout your life, it is very difficult to transition away from playing. I know Jeff has given this much thought. He is an outstanding, mature young man who will be successful in whatever areas he pursues in the future."