Forward Kristen Forristall has decided to leave the Oregon women’s basketball program as a result of problems in her relationship with Oregon head coach Bev Smith.
“I am choosing to leave the Oregon women’s basketball program at this time due to irreconcilable differences between myself and the head coach,” Forristall said in a press release. “I wish to thank all my supporters, specifically my teammates and the community.”
“I realize the timing of this decision may not be ideal but feel this is a decision that could not be delayed. I will make decisions regarding my future at a later date,” she added.
Unable to be reached by phone, Forristall did respond to text messages, but declined a request for an interview.
The 6-foot-2-inch Forristall, who came from Oregon City, was the first McDonald’s All-American to play for Oregon.
Forristall made an immediate impact her freshman year with averages of 5.5 points and 3.2 rebounds and a spot on the Pac-10 All-Freshman Team.
She struggled in her sophomore season and fell out of Smith’s rotation. Forristall played more late in the season and finished the 2005-06 season with averages of 2.7 points and 2.1 rebounds per game.
“We’re disappointed with the decision that Kristen has made, particularly with the timing of this decision,” Smith said in the release. “As far as myself and my coaching staff are concerned, we felt that any perceived differences were resolvable.”
The Emerald will provide further coverage of Forristall’s decision in the coming days.