BYU basketball: Nick Emery withdraws from BYU amid NCAA investigation

BYU basketball’s Nick Emery released a statement on Friday, announcing he’s withdrawing from BYU. What’s next for Emery and the Cougars?

BYU basketball guard Nick Emery is no longer with the team, or enrolled at the university, according to a statement issued by the former Lone Peak High School (UT) star.

In a press release, Emery cited his recent divorce – and disheveled mental state – as part of his reason with withdraw.

Here’s the statement in full, from BYU.

“I have decided to withdraw from BYU today,” Emery said. “Unfortunately, I am mentally not where I need to be in order to perform in basketball and in school this year. As it has been made known, I went through a divorce this year and it has been really difficult for me. I have confidence that I will come back stronger and better. I have every intention on coming back to BYU and representing Cougar nation on the basketball floor. I thank everyone for their love and support, especially my teammates, coaches and the BYU administration that have been an incredible support system. Go Cougs!”

Emery of course is also the subject of an NCAA investigation surrounding his relationship with a booster. The NCAA is attempting to find out whether Emery took improper benefits from the booster – something BYU has already investigated.

The news comes just 24 hours before BYU basketball hosts Mississippi Valley State to begin the regular season.

Emery averaged 13.1 points per game for BYU basketball last season.

Obviously, there’s more to life than athletics. Even though all passionate fans want their team to be successful, it’s easy to forget that these players are actual people.

My Take

I hope Emery can take the necessary time off to get himself to a good place. Divorces are never easy. Nor is seeing your eligibility flash before your eyes.

Best case scenario is Emery follows in the footsteps of Jamaal Williams. Return to BYU and find success again.

But even if he never returns, I hope he finds happiness.

As far as BYU basketball goes, nothing really changes. We were kind of expecting Emery to miss most of – if not all – this season anyway. Expect to see plenty of Jahshire Hardnett instead.

Hardnett, a Chipola College transfer, has looked great in the Cougars’ exhibition games.