Jordan's eldest son leaving Illini, future hoops plans unknown

CHAMPAIGN -- Jeff Jordan's on-again, off-again basketball career at Illinois is over.

Michael Jordan's eldest son has been given his release to transfer to another school. Illinois spokesman Derrick Burson said Friday that Jordan is exploring options elsewhere but hasn't announced where he will go or whether he plans to play basketball in what will be his senior season.

The release is required by the NCAA if a student wants to leave to play at another school.

Illinois coach Bruce Weber called Jordan "an important part of our team."

Jordan left the Illini last June but changed his mind and rejoined the team for his junior season. He appeared in 92 career games and averaged 13.8 minutes per game last season as Illinois wound up in the NIT.

He scored a career-high seven points versus Vanderbilt (Dec. 8, 2009) and had a career-high seven assists against both Western Michigan (Dec. 13, 2009) and Gonzaga (Jan. 2, 2010).

"Jeff was an important part of our team; a competitor who provided depth and steady play at the point guard position and was a defensive presence for us," Weber said. "We thank him for all the hard work and effort he gave to our program. We will support him in the transfer process and wish Jeff the best as he continues with his education and career."