Freshman forward Willie Jackson to transfer from Mizzou

Gabe DeArmond was the first to print, but it looks like Mizzou has already lost it’s first transfer of the year in Willie Jackson:

My initial information was a little different:

What I was told by multiple sources was both Hughes and Jackson had cleaned out their locker with the idea of leaving the team. Obviously something changed since yesterday as Hughes is still on the team, but considering his likely loss of a starting position and his high school friend leaving you have to wonder how secure he is on the roster right now.

Statement from Mizzou:

“Willie Jackson has made the Mizzou Men’s Basketball program aware of his intentions to continue his academic and athletic pursuits closer to home. We understand Willie has a desire to be closer to his family due to a family medical situation, so his decision has our support. We appreciate what Willie has contributed during his time with the program and wish him the best in the future.”

Statement from Willie Jackson:

“I really appreciate the opportunity that Mizzou gave me, and I enjoyed my time in Columbia, but my family needs me closer to home, at this point. We have an illness in the family, and I’m hoping to spend more time around my family to be a positive influence. I am thankful for everything that Mizzou’s coaching staff has done for me, and I will always be cheering for my teammates in the future.”

This is obviously a bad look with a game tonight and conference play starting very soon. Jackson becomes the 11th player since 2014 to leave the roster prematurely. He’s the first member of the last two recruiting classes to have left, however. We’ll have more soon on the impact of the defection.