Brandon Hutton leaving Iowa basketball program

IOWA CITY — Iowa freshman Brandon Hutton is transferring and has been granted a release from his scholarship, head men's basketball coach Fran McCaffery announced Wednesday.

Hutton, a 6-foot-5 Chicago native, redshirted this season.

'Brandon is a terrific individual who remained positive and worked on his game all season long,' McCaffery said in a statement. 'He is a versatile player, who is ultra-competitive, and we wish nothing but the best for Brandon moving forward. My staff and I will do whatever we can to help Brandon during this transition.'

'I would like to thank coach McCaffery and staff for this past year,' Hutton said in the release. 'Even though I redshirted and did not play in games, my coaches and teammates helped me grow as a basketball player in practices. With that said, I feel like it is in my best interests to pursue an expanded role at another institution.

'I would like to thank my teammates for the friendship we developed and their support with this decision. And also a special thank you to the Hawkeye fans for making me feel welcome this past year.'

Hutton averaged 14 points, eight rebounds and five assists as a senior at De La Salle High School and was Iowa's first commit in the class of 2015. He also held offers from Wisconsin, West Virginia, Illinois State, Loyola (Ill.), Illinois-Chicago and St. Francis (Pa.), according to Rivals.

I have experienced a great freshman year here at the University of Iowa. It just turned out that the basketball program is not the best fit.March 30, 2016

I have experienced a great freshman year here at the University of Iowa. It just turned out that the basketball program is not the best fit.

— Brandon Hutton Iowa (@B_Hutt_34)

I appreciate the Iowa fans for welcoming me with open arms. I also appreciate the coaches and my teammates for the great Bball season.March 30, 2016

I appreciate the Iowa fans for welcoming me with open arms. I also appreciate the coaches and my teammates for the great Bball season.

— Brandon Hutton Iowa (@B_Hutt_34)

I will always have much love for the March 30, 2016

I will always have much love for the #HawkeyeNation

— Brandon Hutton Iowa (@B_Hutt_34)