Leon Cooper won't return to Utah State's basketball team next season.

A freshman guard who redshirted this season, Cooper informed coaches of his intention of leaving shortly after the Aggies lost to Kansas State in the NCAA Tournament.

Cooper, who is from the Bahamas, became homesick this season and that was a reason given for his desire to seek a new opportunity, the Tribune has learned.

His loss hurts the depth chart, as he was one of the most athletic players on USU's roster for next season. However, Cooper didn't project as a player who would crack Stew Morrill's rotation.

Cooper's defection opens up a scholarship for the class of 2011, which the staff is trying to use. USU now has two scholarships open for next season.

The only player at this point with a definitive offer is Matt Glover, a 6-foot-4 combination guard out of Wyoming. Glover visited USU's campus this weekend and left without making a commitment. He's also trying to set up a visit to Nebraska.

The coaching staff if in the evaluation stage for the other scholarship. The Tribune has learned that the remaining spot, if used, will go to the "best available player."

Tony Jones