Matt L. Stephens

matthewstephens@coloradoan.com

CSU basketball lost some star power Monday when Jon Octeus announced he wouldn't return to the team for his senior year.

Octeus, the Rams' point guard, started all 32 games for Colorado State University as a junior last season, averaging 13.4 points and 4.7 rebounds per game — good for third on the team in both categories.

Details on the reasoning of his departure are vague. The Coloradoan spoke briefly with Octeus on Monday evening and he asked to please refer to the school's news release for comments at this time.

He earned the starting job last season following the graduation of former Ram Dorian Green and was in line to hold onto his job for 2014-15. Octeus was also the unquestioned leader of CSU, keeping teammates accountable in games and practice.

"This was not an easy decision, but upon graduating, I have decided it is in my best interest to explore the opportunity to complete my last year of eligibility at another institution," said Octeus in a statement released by CSU. "I appreciate coach (Larry) Eustachy's understanding throughout this process. Thank you to everyone that has supported me through this chapter of my life."

Octeus was the first player coach Larry Eustachy recruited to CSU after accepting the job in 2012, signing him out of Wabash Valley College in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

"Jon has been a big part of the success we have had at Colorado State over the last two years," Eustachy said in a news release. "More than just a talented player, he is a leader and a person of character.

"He gave CSU two outstanding seasons, but more importantly, he will leave our program with his degree. You can't ask for much more out of a student-athlete."

Eustachy was not made available for further comment.

Octeus will earn his bachelor's degree this summer and should be immediately eligible to play next season after transferring.

With Octeus gone, John Gillon, a sophomore transfer from Arkansas-Little Rock, will likely take over at point guard. Eustachy said previously that Gillon does things on the court that can't be taught due to his overwhelming athleticism.

Stay tuned to Coloradoan.com for more updates on this story.

Follow reporter Matt L. Stephens at twitter.com/mattstephens and facebook.com/stephensreporting.