Guerrero Leaves Cowboy Basketball Program

Sophomore point guard Cezar Guerrero has left the Oklahoma State basketball program for personal reasons, it was announced on Monday by OSU coach Travis Ford.

Guerrero cited concerns regarding his mother's health and wanting to be closer to home to be near her as his reasons for leaving the team.

"I have spoken with Cezar and his brother, J.C., and understand the difficult time their family is going through," Ford said in a press release. "We wish Cezar nothing but the best, and pray for a speedy recovery for his mother, Martha. Cezar has been a valuable member of this team, and we appreciate all the contributions that he has made to the program.

"We will certainly help him in any way possible to locate a school near his home that will give him an opportunity to continue his education while also pursuing his basketball career."

Guerrero also released a statement.

"I really need to be near my mother during this difficult time for her," Guerrero said. "It's a difficult decision for me, but being with my mom and my family is the most important thing right now. It's unfortunate, because I have really enjoyed my year at OSU and being a part of the Cowboy basketball family. Coach Ford has been like a father-figure to me, and I appreciate everything he's done for me, as a player and a person.

"It's disappointing for me to leave, because I think this team could be something special this season. It will be an exciting team to watch."

According to the release, Guerrero leaves OSU in excellent academic standing, according to Dr. Marilyn Middlebrook, associate athletic director for academic affairs at Oklahoma State.

Guerrero started six games as a true freshman last season and averaged 5.6 points, 1.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 32 games. He scored a career-high 29 points against UTSA in the second round of the NIT Season Tip-Off.

The Cowboys also lost veteran point guards Reger Dowell and Fred Gulley midway through last season.

Oklahoma State does not have a true point guard remaining on its roster for the upcoming season but captain Markel Brown played the role well at times during conference play and true freshman Phil Forte and McDonald's All-American Marcus Smart could both get strong looks.