The whole Justin Knox transfer story continues. Here is what the Associated Press wrote about it this afternoon.
BIRMINGHAM (AP) — Alabama coach Anthony Grant said Thursday the university made the decision to limit Justin Knox’s transfer options while agreeing to keep paying his tuition until he graduates this summer.
Grant said he did not make the decision to put restrictions on the junior forward, who would be eligible to play immediately once he has his degree. Under the restrictions, Knox can’t transfer to a school on the Crimson Tide’s schedule next season, to a Southeastern Conference school or within the University of Alabama system. That would rule out UAB.
“My first conversation with him was in regards to his graduation,” Grant said at a pro-am before the Regions Charity Classic. “I felt like what I needed to do for Justin was get clarification on whether or not the university would pay for his graduation. I went and spoke to our administration and they indicated that they would consider that but they had stipulations. Once that got talked about and put in their hands, I stepped away from it. It’s really an administrative decision. Right now, I’m out of it.”
Knox has appealed the restrictions to the university.
Grant indicated he didn’t have a problem personally with Knox transferring to UAB.
“Whatever Justin decides to do, whatever he feels like is in his best interest, I think that’s between Justin and his family,” he said.
The 6-foot-9, 240-pound Knox started 17 games in Grant’s first season and averaged 6.3 points and 3.7 rebounds.
He was a 31-game starter as a sophomore, when he averaged 5.7 points and 5.1 rebounds.
Asked whether he feared there was improper tampering from another school, Grant said he is giving Knox the benefit of the doubt.
“When Justin and I talked, Justin spoke of his desire to put himself in a better position to have more playing time, to be a bigger part of that program,” Grant said. “I’ve got to take Justin at his word that that’s what he’s looking for, and I believe him. Justin is a great kid, and we have a great relationship. I wish him the best.”
Grant said a number of schools have called about Knox.
