PROVO -- BYU men's basketball player David Burgess, a 6-foot-10 redshirt freshman center, announced Thursday that he will transfer from BYU to complete his eligibility.
"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at BYU and I think Coach Rose is an unbelievable coach but his system just isn't a good fit for me personally," Burgess said. "When I signed, Coach Cleveland's system was a half-court offense, which fits me better as a player. I was excited for Coach Rose to be named the coach and I worked hard to lose some weight and try to prepare myself for his system but it's just not the best fit for me. My whole time here has been great and it's going to be hard not being with my teammates but I think this will work out best."
Burgess has not yet determined where he will transfer. BYU will grant Burgess' request for a release.
"David came in and told me that he plans to transfer after finals," BYU coach Dave Rose said. "David has worked very hard and our staff appreciates what he has done for our program. I wish the very best for David."
Burgess has appeared in three of seven games this year, averaging 0.7 points and 1.7 rebounds in 5.0 minutes of play. Burgess also played in two games in 2004-05 before being awarded a hardship waiver (ankles) for a redshirt season. Burgess signed with BYU under former Cougar coach Steve Cleveland in November 2003 out of Woodbridge High School in Irvine, Calif., where he averaged 19 points and 13 rebounds as a senior.