Derrick Byars Leaving Virginia Basketball Program

Story Links

April 20, 2004

CHARLOTTESVILLE – University of Virginia men’s head basketball coach Pete Gillen announced Tuesday (April 20) that forward/guard Derrick Byars (Memphis, Tenn.) will leave the program. Byars has asked for and will receive his immediate release. He plans to remain at Virginia through the end of the spring semester.

“We appreciate Derrick’s contributions to our basketball program for the past two years,” Gillen said. “We wish him the best in his future endeavors.”

The 6-7 Byars has played for the Cavaliers the last two seasons. As a sophomore during the 2003-04 season, he played in all 31 of Virginia’s games and started 18. He averaged 7.5 points and 3.4 rebounds a game. Byars shot 46.7 percent (85-182) from the field, including 40.3 percent (25-62) from three-point range, and 68.5 percent (37-54) from the free throw line.

As a freshman in 2002-03, Byars played in 31 games and started 16. He averaged 6.5 points and 2.9 rebounds a game.

Byars’ future plans are unknown at this time.