Taurean Thompson, a rising sophomore and would-be potential star for Syracuse, has left the program, the Syracuse Post-Standard reported.
The 20-year-old Thompson averaged 9.2 points and 3.8 rebounds, in addition to 55-percent shooting last season. Standing 6-foot-9 and boasting an exceptional handle for a power forward, Thompson was expected to make a big leap in playing time and offensive responsibility for Jim Boeheim's program this season.
The Orange battled injuries in 2016-17, finished 19-15 and missed the NCAA Tournament for the second time in three seasons.
"We have been informed that Taurean is taking a leave of absence from Syracuse University," Boeheim said in a statement to the Post-Standard.