Spartan Hoopla: Michigan State's Chris Allen No Longer a Spartan

It's been four months in the making, but the speculation that Michigan State's 6-foot-3 shooting guard Chris Allen would transfer, or be removed from the team, is now a fact.

Allen will not return to Michigan State for his final season, according to several sources, including Spartan Nation.com.

Both Spartan coach Tom Izzo, and former player, Chris Allen, made the news public today in statements.

"It's been no secret that Chris Allen's been in a tenuous position since the spring," Izzo said via Spartan Nation.com post. "There were multiple obligations that Chris had to meet in order to return for his senior season.

While he did make progress through the summer, he has failed to meet all the obligations, and will not be a part of our program this fall.

I know he's going to be a great player. He deserves another chance to play basketball somewhere, but it's in everyone's interest that it be somewhere other than Michigan State. Like every player, he has to mature a little bit.

I think a year away from the game will be beneficial for his development as a person and a player."

Allen was suspended by Izzo prior to the Big Ten Tournament for "failing to meet team commitments." Rumors began to swirl regarding the severity of Allen's offense or offenses, and message boards ran wild with transfer-hype.

The former Mr. Georgia basketball butted heads with Izzo on several occasions during his tenure in East Lansing. In a statement released today, Allen was positive when he reflected on his career at Michigan State.

"Coach was straight-forward with about what I needed to do to remain a part of the team," Allen said.

Unfortunately, I didn't meet all the obligations. I have enjoyed my time at Michigan State, and I appreciate the support from my fans, and everyone associated with the program.

It's unfortunate things didn't work out, but I'm leaving on good terms with my teammates and coaches."