Sophomore Wally Ellenson leaves Minnesota, will focus on track and field

MINNEAPOLIS – Minnesota sophomore Wally Ellenson has left the basketball program.

Gopher basketball coach Richard Pitino says the team respects Ellenson's decision. The university announced his decision Tuesday.

Ellenson, a native of Rice Lake, Wis., appeared in nine games for Minnesota this season, totaling 16 points, 12 rebounds, two assists and a steal. During his freshman season, the 6-foot-4 shooting guard overcame a broken left hand suffered early in the season to play nine games as a reserve.

Ellenson plans to remain on the Gophers' track and field team. Last year, Ellenson placed eighth in the high jump at the NCAA outdoor championships.