The first roster movement since Avery Johnson's arrival isn't a positive one. Point guard Ricky Tarrant, the team's top returning scorer, has decided to transfer.

The Tuscaloosa News' Cecil Hurt first reported the decision.

The transfer means that Alabama has lost its top three scorers from the 2014-15 season. Levi Randolph (graduation), Tarrant (transfer), and Rodney Cooper (graduation) all combined to average 39.6 points per game for the Crimson Tide.

“I met with Ricky on Wednesday and shared with him that we wanted him back next season,” head coach Avery Johnson said. “We told him it would be competitive but he would have the opportunity and we would help him get better so he can reach his goals. There were no gray areas and everything was crystal clear. He wanted to talk it over with his family and once he did that, he called back and asked us for his release yesterday, which we granted.

“As a new coaching staff, we understand that these things can happen. It is not a bad reflection on Ricky or anyone else. He has to do what’s in his best interests and we wish him nothing but the best of luck.”

Tarrant transferred into the program from Tulane prior to the 2013 season and sat out one year per NCAA rules. He showed a great ability to score and defend during his time at Alabama, but injuries limited him to just 19 games.

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