Royce Woolridge and James Hunter to transfer from WSU

PULLMAN – Royce Woolridge and James Hunter will transfer from the Washington State University basketball program, the school announced on Tuesday. Additionally, signee Jermaine Morgan has been released from his National Letter of Intent and will not enroll at WSU.

The team currently has just nine scholarship players heading into next season, meaning new head coach Ernie Kent will have four to offer in the late signing period, which begins today.

Woolridge, a two-year starting guard for the Cougars, said in WSU’s press release that his departure is not because of the house cleaning and roster turnover that accompanies many coaching changes, but a desire to be closer to his grandmother in Arizona.

“I want to thank Coach Kent for the opportunity that he’s given me and everyone else at WSU,” Woolridge said. “I’ve enjoyed my three years here and am proud that I will be able to call myself a Washington State graduate. I am looking to continue my education by attending graduate school and playing my final season at a school in Arizona to be closer to my grandmother.”

Hunter, who transferred to WSU from Gillette College in Wyoming, scored 17 points in 18 appearances over the last two seasons. He is on track to graduate this spring with a degree in general social sciences.

“James Hunter made a very intelligent decision for himself,” Kent said. “This is best for him and his future and I wish him well.”

“I want to thank Coach Kent and the staff for the great opportunity here at WSU,” Hunter said. “I know I’m leaving my teammates in great hands and wish them all the success in the world. I am set to receive a great degree from Washington State, which allows me to pursue a master’s degree and play my final year of basketball elsewhere. I’ve enjoyed my time at WSU and made lifelong friends, but I know this decision is going to be best for my future.”

Morgan is a 6-foot-8 forward from Moberly Area Community College in Chicago. Kent said in the release that Morgan wished to stay closer to home because of medical issues his family is dealing with.