Kentucky freshman guard Alex Legion informed head coach Billy Gillispie Monday night of his desire to transfer.

?It?s unfortunate and not what I wanted to hear, but I understand,? Gillispie said.

?We met with Alex and his mother Friday, and she informed us of her desire to seek a release for her son. Shortly after that meeting, Alex told me that he still wanted to be a part of our program. He played in the game against North Carolina Saturday and seemed happy when I spoke with him Sunday.?

Gillispie, who spent much of Monday in Louisville at funeral services for former Wildcat greats Ralph Beard and Tommy Kron, found out on the way back to Lexington that Legion had not attended Monday afternoon?s practice. He met with Legion late Monday night, when the player informed Gillispie of his decision to transfer.

?You always hate to lose a valued member of your program, and Alex was definitely that. He has tremendous potential as a player and a student, but most importantly, he is a wonderful young man. We hate to see him leave, but if he can be happier elsewhere then all you can do is wish him the best.?

Legion, a native of Inkster, Mich., has played in all six UK games, starting twice. He has averaged 6.7 points in over 17 minutes per game.