May 16, 2008

COLUMBIA, S.C. – University of South Carolina head women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley announced today that Jordan Jones has requested and been granted her release from the program.

“I’m sad to see Jordan leave our program, but I respect her decision to do what is best for her,” Staley said. “I know that the program, the community and the fans will miss her, but we wish her well.”

In 2007-08 as a freshman, Jones was the Gamecocks’ leading scorer and ranked ninth in the SEC with 13.1 points per game. She shot 39.9 percent from 3-point range, making a South Carolina freshman record 97 3-pointers. Jones set a school record with nine 3-pointers against North Carolina A&T in the first round of the WNIT.

“There were a lot of factors involved in this decision, but this is what is best for me at this time,” Jones said. “I know that Coach Staley will have a lot of success at South Carolina, and I will miss being a part of that. But, I want to thank her, the administration and the fans for all their support this past year. I wish the team great success in the future.”

With Jones’ departure, Staley has three scholarships available for the 2008-09 season.