Laurie leaves Mizzou

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Reserve Laurie will leave Mizzou

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Backup Missouri point guard Spencer Laurie announced Thursday that he is transferring at the end of the current academic year.

Laurie, who played in only seven games as a sophomore because of knee and ankle injuries, and coach Quin Snyder issued brief statements Thursday about the 6-foot-1 guard's decision to leave.

"Mizzou is a special place to me and I have had a very positive experience during my time here," Laurie said. "I thank coach Snyder and his staff for the opportunities I have had the last two years and wish them the best of luck in the future."

Snyder wished his former player well.

"Spencer has epitomized what being a student-athlete and teammate is all about," he said. "I appreciate all of the contributions he has made while he has been here and the attitude he brought to the court each and every day."

-- AP