Gilbert enters transfer portal, leaves UConn

Storrs — Alterique Gilbert is searching for a new college basketball home.

A redshirt junior guard, Gilbert has entered his name in the transfer portal, signalling an end to his injury-plagued UConn basketball career.

Coach Dan Hurley reacted to Gilbert's decision during a conference call this morning.

"Al's time here hasn't been easy," Hurley said. "He's displayed amazing courage and leadership in the program. We're going to lose that with him. He needs a fresh start and an opportunity to find a place that can give him everything that he needs."

Gilbert arrived in Storrs as a highly-regarded recruit. He earned McDonald's All-American honors while at Miller Grove High School in Lithonia, Ga.

But shoulder injuries badly hampered Gilbert during his career, limiting him to just nine games in his first two seasons. He bounced back to average 12.6 points in 201819 and entered this recently completed season in good physical health.

Gilbert started the first 19 games but struggled. He sat out the Temple game on Jan. 29 due to personal reasons. When he returned against Memphis, he came off the bench and remained in that role for the rest of the season with the exception of Senior Night on March 5 versus Houston.

He finished averaging 8.5 points, 2.6 rebounds and a team-best 3.8 assists in 30 games.

On track to receive his undergraduate degree, Gilbert will look to join another program as a graduate transfer.

"He's got a chance to hit the reset button," Hurley said. "From our conversations, we hope to try to help him with the process however he needs us . ... He'll be sorely missed."