March 31, 2010

COLUMBIA, S.C. – University of South Carolina freshman center Kelsey Bone will not return to the Gamecock women’s basketball program for the 2010-11 season, head coach Dawn Staley announced today.

“Kelsey made a significant impact on our program this season, and we regret that she feels it is in her best interest to leave,” Staley said. “We are a program that is constantly focused on doing what is best for our players, and we support Kelsey in her decision and wish her the best. I am confident that our program will continue to grow in her absence as we constantly strive to bring quality players and people into the Gamecock family, beginning with the outstanding group of players committed to join us next season. “

Bone was a Second-Team All-SEC selection by both the league coaches and the Associated Press and the AP’s choice for SEC Newcomer of the Year. She led the league with 9.2 rebounds per game and ranked among the conference’s top 10 scorers with 14.0 points per game.