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<\/p>\nOXFORD \u2014 Ole Miss basketball guard Daeshun Ruffin is stepping away from the program to focus on his mental and physical health, according to a statement posted Wednesday night.<\/p>\n
In a statement, he indicated that he hopes to return in the future.<\/p>\n
Ruffin missed the Rebels’ loss to Oklahoma State on Saturday due to what was officially explained as a coach’s decision. I’m back in the game. He also missed time due to illness after the start of SEC play.<\/p>\n
Ruffin, a sophomore and former McDonald’s All-American, appeared in 11 games in 2022-23, averaging 9.5 points and 3.2 assists per game.<\/p>\n\n
True freshmen Amalie Abram and TJ Caldwell will make up the majority of point guard time in his absence.<\/p>\n
Kentucky Preview:<\/strong>Ole Miss Basketball vs. Kentucky: Scouting Report, Score Prediction<\/p>\n Kentucky update:<\/strong>Ole Miss Basketball Scores vs. Kentucky: Live Update from SEC Clash<\/p>\n\n WBB:<\/strong>Why Ole Miss Women’s Basketball’s Arkansas Comeback Could Be More Than Just A Big Moment<\/p>\n You can read Ruffin’s full statement below.<\/p>\n “I would first like to say that I love the University of Mississippi, my teammates, the coaching staff and the Oxford community,” he wrote. \u201cHis two years here have been amazing. Despite his injuries, he has built friendships and relationships that will last a lifetime. This decision, together with his family, puts himself and his future first. The result.<\/p>\n\n \u201cI have decided to step away from the team and take whatever actions are necessary to recover in hopes of regaining 100% of my physical and mental health. I look forward to returning with my Ole Miss teammates in the future and giving them and you the best version of me. Please respect our privacy. Thank you for all the love.”<\/p>\n