Gophers F Josh Martin to transfer immediately

MINNEAPOLIS -- Gophers freshman Josh Martin is seeking to transfer from Minnesota's basketball program effective immediately, the team announced Monday.

Martin, a forward from Bothell, Was., has averaged just 1.3 points and 1.0 rebounds per game this year as a freshman. He has played in seven of the Gophers' games and played more than six minutes just once.

"While we are disappointed in Josh's decision to transfer, we with him nothing but the best in the future," Gophers coach Richard Pitino said Monday in a statement.

Including Martin, Minnesota had three freshmen on this year's roster. Only one, guard Nate Mason, has received regular playing time. The other, center Bakary Konate, has played sparingly in the Gophers' non-conference season.

Martin -- who was high school teammates with Timberwolves rookie Zach LaVine -- chose Minnesota over Florida State, Oklahoma State and Pitt. Though the Gophers need depth at the forward position, Martin seemingly wasn't quite ready for extended playing time at the Division I level.

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