Update: Chris Korman of the Herald Times has confirmed the report with a quote from Tom Crean through the IU AD spokesman: “Jordan Crawford and his family informed us today that he will not return to Indiana University.”
Sources have told John Decker of Scout.com that
Jordan Crawford recently informed IU that he will be transferring to another school before next season.
Not much information is openly available on the 6'4" 195 lb guard's decision, but the coaching overhaul and off-season signings of a slew of players at his position, including Nick Williams, Verdell Jones, Devan Dumes for 2008, as well as Maurice Creek, Jordan Hulls, and Jeremiah Rivers for 2009 probably played a large role.
While Jordan Crawford's supposed departure will make the Hoosier squad even younger for next year, it does open up some possibilities for the future and alleviates some pressure for scholarships at a position that many thought was quickly becoming overcrowded.
It is also yet another symbolic step toward a new era after Kelvin Sampson's brief but disastrous career at IU. Not that Jordan was responsible for any of the violations, but with his impending transfer the program has completed a full circle that nobody could have expected, even considering the magnitude of the Sampson scandal. After the hearing this weekend is completed and IU knows it's punishment, it may finally be possible for IU start moving completely away from the events of the past two years.
Crawford averaged 9.7 points per game for the Hoosiers last season, and until this latest revelation there hadn't been much indication that he would follow in the footsteps of the majority of last year's roster, and it seemed hopeful to some (myself included) that he would return to help provide experience and leadership next year.
His destination is still unknown, but there was a rumor that he was seen wearing a University of Kentucky shirt earlier this year. His older brother, Joe, starred for the Wildcats before graduating this year, and it would seem like it could be a viable option for Crawford's skills. The Detroit, Michigan, native may also be looking to re-locate closer to home.
Currently Coach Crean is returning one scholarship player in former walk-on Kyle Taber, as well as walk-on Brett Finkelmeier.
Check back for more updates on this developing story.
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