Marquette Men's Basketball players and sophomores Deonte Burton and John Dawson will transfer away from the school when the semester ends on December 14th, head coach Steve Wojciechowski said today. In a statement, the coach said: "We appreciate all that Deonte and John have contributed to the program since our staff arrived in April. We will do everything we can to help them make the next step in their respective careers and wish them nothing but the best in the future."
Burton has played regularly under Wojciechowski, averaging 6.4 points and 1.4 rebounds per game while playing 16.1 minutes per game. While lacking the size to play as a true big man, he has a unique ability to pick the ball up on the wing, drive and score. Burton has been mentioned often as a potential NBA Draft pick in the future, and if he does not have a future in the US he has been rumored as potential pro player overseas.
Burton has been held in a higher regard by most Golden Eagle fans given that Dawson's only appearance this season came in the season-opening victory over UT-Martin. He made 24 appearances last term, and garnered much attention after his stellar offensive output in the overtime victory over Georgetown. However, he has found minutes this season difficult to come by. With only nine eligible players, it has been a surprise not to see Dawson on the floor. Therefore, it does not come as a massive surprise to see him leave.
The Golden Eagles are now down to just seven eligible players, although Indiana transfer Luke Fischer becomes eligible this Sunday, the 14th, and will be eligible for their next game. Marquette is currently enjoying a week off from games so that their student-athletes can focus on studying for exams. They will resume action on December 16th against Arizona State.