Larry “with”Drew

Larry Drew II (did they have a problem with junior?) has left the UNC team effective immediately.

Rats leaving the ship or over active parent (ESPN.com)?

Official statements from WRAL.com:

Larry Drew II:

“After careful consideration and consultation with my family, I have decided it’s in my best interest to continue my education and basketball career elsewhere,” says Drew II. “I have enjoyed my time in North Carolina and appreciate the support of everyone associated with the program. Over the last three years we’ve accomplished a lot as a team and those experiences will help me not only on the court, but off the court as well.

“I’d like to thank the coaching staff for giving me the opportunity to play at one of the nation’s top colleges in UNC, and my teammates for their support as well. It is unfortunate my career didn’t meet expectations in Chapel Hill, however I do look forward to continuing my collegiate and athletic career in the near future.”

Roy Williams:

“This morning I spoke to Larry Drew Sr. and he informed me that it was in Larry II’s best interest to leave North Carolina at this time,” says Williams. “Personally I hate this for Larry and our team because he was such an important part of our team and he has continued to improve and played well in recent games. He was our defensive award winner in two of our last four games and has handled the ball really well in our four-game win streak.

“But I understand that families and players have to make their own decisions as to what is best for them at a particular time in their lives. He contributed a great deal to our program in his two and a half years here, including being a part of a national championship team. I regret that Larry and his family feel this is the right thing to do, but again, each individual has to do what they think is best. He will be successful wherever he chooses to go. I appreciate what he gave to our University and basketball program in his time here.”